Governing Body

Balsam Academy is a unit of the Balaram Memorial Trust, established in 2004 as the result of a vision by a small group of individuals who recognised the challenges faced by mainstream schools in providing adequate services to a diverse student population, particularly those from low-income backgrounds and with differing beliefs, languages, and behavioural approaches. The name "Balsam" reflects the school's commitment to nature in all aspects of its operations.

With a team of qualified and passionate facilitators, Balsam Academy's Governing Body is dedicated to supporting and guiding students, leading to far-reaching positive impacts not only for the school community but also for families and the broader society. Looking ahead, the Governing Body aims to:

  • Facilitate pathways for young people entering the workforce, collaborating with organisations that offer innovative solutions aligned with the school's ethos.
  • Explore creative educational ideas for parents, children, and schools.
  • Provide resources for new community initiatives.
MRS. SAROJA. V.B MANAGING TRUSTEE
MRS. ASHA RANI BALARAM CO-MANAGING TRUSTEE
MR. SUNDAR. K TREASURER
MS. ANITHA. R SECRETARY

PRINCIPAL (AL): Mr. Prabakaran. B

The School Management Committee (SMC) is an officially constituted body approved by the Board of Trustees of the school. The SMC is accountable to the school and its community and is responsible for acting in the best interest of the school and all its stakeholders. Members hold a term for three years.

POWERS AND FUNCTIONS OF THE SCHOOL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Subject to the overall control of the Trust, the duties, powers, and responsibilities of the School Management Committee shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

  • It shall supervise the activities of the school for its smooth functioning.
  • It will work according to the specific directions given by the Trust regarding admission policy. However, it shall ensure that admissions are made as per merit without discretion of gender, disability, religion, race, caste, creed and place of birth etc., strictly as per state policy.
  • It shall look into the welfare of the teachers and employees of the school.
  • It shall evolve both short-term and long-term plans for the improvement of the school.
  • It shall oversee the appointment of adequate and competent teaching and non-teaching staff.
  • It shall exercise financial powers beyond those delegated to the Principal within the budgetary provisions of the school.
  • It shall take stock of academic programmes and progress of the school without jeopardising the academic freedom of the Principal.
  • It shall guide the Principal in school management.
  • It shall ensure that the norms given in the Acts/Rules of the State/UT and of the CBSE regarding terms and conditions of service and other rules governing recognition/Affiliation of the school are strictly adhered to.
  • It shall ensure that no financial irregularity is committed and no irregular procedure with regard to admission/examinations is adopted.
  • It shall approve the rates of fees and other charges subject to the conditions laid down in the bye-laws.
  • It shall review the budget of the school presented by the Principal and forward the same to the trust for approval.
  • It shall ensure the safety and security of children and staff of the school and give directions for improvement.
  • It shall look into grievances of the teachers and staff in connection with their service conditions and pay etc. and dispose of such grievances in accordance with applicable rules.
  • The School Management Committee will meet at least twice in an academic session.
  • The provisions contained in Acts and Regulations of the Appropriate Government will prevail upon the provisions related to the School Management Committee.
Name Designation Occupation
Mrs. Saroja. V.B Chairperson Entrepreneur
Mr. Prabakaran. B Ex-officio Secretary Principal
Ms. Spurthi Naidu Management Representative Human Resource Manager
Mr. Veeramurugan Board Representative Principal
Mr. Amit Kumar Board Representative Principal
Ms. Nadhiya. D Teacher Representative (Internal) Teacher
Ms. Kalpana. S Teacher Representative (Internal) Teacher
Ms. Vanitha. P Parent Representative Entrepreneur
Mr. Billy Sadhu Sharma. K Parent Representative Engineer
Mr. Thangapandiyan Member - CA Tax Management Consultant
Ms. Latha Shanmuga Raj Member - Representative Retd. Agricultural Officer
Dr. Vimal Prabhakaran Member - Doctor Doctor
Ms. Vidya S Teacher Representative (External) Assistant Professor - VIT
Dr. Balaji. E Teacher Representative (External) Sr. Assistant Professor

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: Mr. Damodiran P (S&O)

Objective:

To oversee and provide strategic direction, ensure operational excellence, and align the school's functioning with its vision, mission, and CBSE guidelines.

Responsibilities:
  • Oversee the day-to-day operations and long-term strategic goals of the school.
  • Form, guide, and monitor various sub-committees to uphold governance standards.
  • Ensure adherence to CBSE policies, statutory requirements, and school norms.
  • Facilitate cross-departmental collaboration for efficient and holistic school functioning.
  • Conduct regular reviews to assess school progress and implement timely, actionable solutions.
  • Support innovation and continuous improvement in academic and administrative processes.
Objective:

To ensure continuous academic improvement and adherence to the CBSE School Quality Assessment and Assurance (SQAA) framework.

Responsibilities:
  • Develop and monitor the implementation of the SQAA framework in academic and operational areas.
  • Conduct regular self-assessments to identify strengths and areas of improvement.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to enhance key domains such as curriculum, inclusivity, governance, and beneficiary satisfaction.
  • Prioritise improvement areas and create actionable plans for academic excellence.
  • Foster a culture of innovation and quality within the school ecosystem.
Designation Member(s)
SQAA Coordinator Ms. Bharathi P
Management Representative Ms. Starlet Vincent
Principal Mr. Prabakaran B
Team Leader Mr. Manimaran S
Scholastic Heads & Asst. Scholastic Heads English: Ms. Sumi Glancy & Mr. Albin Antony
Tamil: Ms. Sujatha R & Ms. Sudha P
Hindi: Ms. Komal Grover
Math: Ms. Fathima G & Ms. Nadhiya D
Science: Ms. Gomathy P & Ms. Rony Joseph
Social Science: Ms. Arul Selva Priya V & Ms. Mubarak H A
Co-scholastic Head Ms. Keerthana G
Assessment & Evaluation Team Ms. Resma K B, Ms. Saritha P, Special Educator
Co-Curricular Team Mr. Suresh Kumar, Mr. Dinesh Kumar M
Counsellor Ms. Ayshath Safwana
Admin Representative Mr. Delhi Babu A
IT Staff Mr. Pradeep Raj D
Parent Representatives Primary: Ms. Yamini Yogalakshmi K (Diya Shree V – G3B)
Middle: Ms. Uma S (Priyadharshini S – G7A)
Secondary: Ms. Vidhya S (Olivia Marshal – G9A)
Teacher Representatives Kindergarten: Ms. Pavithra G & Ms. Hajeera Begum A
Pre-primary: Ms. Revathi S & Ms. Keerthana G
Primary: Ms. Kruthika A & Ms. Shanmugapriya
Middle: Ms. Kalpana S & Ms. Bennisa P
Secondary: Ms. Hemalatha U
Student Representatives Primary: Eashwar Varun (G5B)
Middle: Subasree S (G8A)
Secondary: Rudrasri S (G10B)
Secondary: Mohammed Obaidullah A I (G10A)
Objective:

To ensure a safe and secure environment for students, staff, and visitors.

Responsibilities:
  • Develop and implement school safety policies and procedures.
  • Conduct risk assessments, safety audits, and mock drills regularly.
  • Address hazards promptly and ensure safety preparedness for emergencies.
  • Collaborate with local authorities, parents, and the school community to strengthen safety protocols.
  • Educate students and staff on safety awareness and practices.
Impact:

This committee creates a culture of safety and security, building trust and preparedness among the school community.

Category Members
Parent Representatives Ms. Vanitha P (Pranesha U V - G5B) - SMC
Ms. Asha Kumari P (Mahika A P - G10B) - Secondary
Student Representatives Akilah Kaunain S (G10B)
Srinik Varshit T (G9A)

PRINCIPAL: Mr. Prabakaran B

Objective:

To ensure safe, reliable, and efficient transportation for students and staff.

Responsibilities:
  • Plan and oversee transportation routes and schedules.
  • Conduct regular safety inspections and audits of school vehicles.
  • Ensure compliance with transportation regulations and safety guidelines.
  • Address transportation concerns raised by parents, staff, or students.
  • Facilitate collaboration between transport service providers, parents, and school authorities.
Impact:

This committee ensures that transportation systems are safe, efficient, and meet the needs of the school community.

Category Zone Representative
Parent Representative Walaja Mr. Gnanavel S (Mohnish G – G5B)
Parent Representative Walaja Mr. Madhanraj R (Roshan M – G6A)
Parent Representative Arcot Ms. Kalaiselvi V (Sharvesh V – G5A)
Parent Representative Arcot Ms. Malathi S (Lakshana D – G7B)
Parent Representative Ranipet Mr. Shankar K (Sangamithra S – G9B)
Parent Representative Ranipet Mr. Arun Kumar D (Arshan Kumar A – G6C)
Parent Representative Sipcot Mr. Kalaiselvan J (Bhagath K – G7B)
Parent Representative Sipcot Ms. Logeshwari P (Kayan R V – G4B)
Teacher Representative Walaja Ms. Revathy V
Teacher Representative Walaja Ms. Pooja S I
Teacher Representative Arcot Ms. Sudha K
Teacher Representative Arcot Ms. Navuful Asheeka M
Teacher Representative Ranipet Ms. Vijayalakshmi S
Teacher Representative Ranipet Ms. Kalaivani P
Teacher Representative Sipcot Ms. Priyadarshini N
Teacher Representative Sipcot Ms. Sameera Jasmine Z

HEAD OF OPERATIONS: Mr. Delhi Babu A

Objective:

To build a resilient school environment by preparing the school community for potential disasters and ensuring a timely and effective response and recovery.

Core Responsibilities:
  • Develop, implement, and update the School Disaster Management Plan (SDMP).
  • Conduct regular disaster preparedness drills and training for all stakeholders.
  • Collaborate with local authorities, emergency services, and subject experts.
  • Assess and mitigate potential risks and vulnerabilities within the school campus.
  • Monitor, review, and improve preparedness measures periodically.
Role Members / Representatives Key Responsibilities
Chairperson Principal – Mr. Prabakaran B Overall oversight, leadership in planning and execution of disaster management activities.
Vice-Chairperson Vice Principal – Ms. Mubarak H A Supports the Chairperson and ensures implementation of plans and communication.
SDMC Coordinator Head of Operations – Mr. Delhi Babu A Coordinates planning, training, drills, compliance monitoring and liaison with agencies.
Relief / Disaster Expert Advisor Dr. Ganapathy (VIT University) Provides expert advice on disaster risk reduction, recovery and resilience.
District Administration Liaison Mr. Karthikeyan, VAO, Mukundarayapuram Coordination with local revenue and administration bodies.
Fire Service Representative Mr. Arasu G, SIPCOT Fire Station Fire safety inspections and fire safety drills.
Police Department Representative Mr. Baskaran, Ranipet Police Station Security during emergency evacuations and maintaining law and order.
Health Department Representative Mr. Murali, Block Health Inspector, Lalapet Health advisories and disease outbreak management.
Cyber Cell Liaison Mr. Baskaran, Ranipet Police Station Managing cyber threats and digital safety procedures.
Awareness & Warning Team Admin Block: Mr. Thanigachalam S, Ms. Hajeera Begum, Ms. Navuful Asheeka M
Lab Block: Mr. Vikram S
Academic Block GF: Ms. Syama, Ms. Pavithra G
1st Floor: Ms. Saritha P, Ms. Bharathi P
2nd Floor: Ms. Fathima G, Ms. Bavya A
Timely communication of alerts and warnings.
Evacuation Team Admin Block: Ms. Meenakshi T K, Mr. Havas Ahsan Haque
Lab Block: Mr. Dinesh Kumar M
Ground Floor: Ms. Revathi S, Ms. Kalaivani S
1st Floor: Ms. Kalpana S, Ms. Nadhiya D
2nd Floor: Ms. Sumi Glancy, Ms. Resma KB
Facilitates safe and swift evacuation during emergencies.
Search & Rescue Team Mr. Nantheep Kumar S, Mr. Thanigachalam T, Mr. Ashwin Kumar G, Ms. Saraswathy S, Mr. Munisamy P, Ms. Farhana Begum J, Ms. Priyadharshini N, Mr. Suresh Kumar S, Ms. Keerthana G, Ms. Shanmuga Priya S, Mr. Raghul V, Ms. Gomathy P Searches for missing individuals and performs rescue operations.
Fire Safety Team Bus Transport Personnel, Mr. Sathiyaraj R, Ms. Saraswathy S, Mr. Dinesh Kumar M, Mr. Vikram S, Ms. Kruthika A, Ms. Priyadharshini K, Ms. Syama U P, Mr. Anand S, Ms. Thirumagal K, Ms. Hemalatha U, Ms. Bavya A Prevents and manages fire-related incidents.
Site Security Team Mr. Damodiran P, Mr. Prabakaran B, Ms. Mubarak H A, Mr. Pradeep Raj D Ensures campus security and controls access during crises.
School Safety Team Facility Manager – Mr. Sathiyaraj R
Safety Officer – Mr. Raghul V
Support Staff – Ms. Saraswathy S, Ms. Nalini S, Ms. Indirani A
Teacher Representatives – Ms. Pavithra G, Ms. Kalaivani P
Student Representatives – Thanesha U V (G9A), Poojith Pandi B (G9C), Mohammad Areeb A N (G10B)
Overall monitoring of school environment and infrastructure safety.
Medical & First Aid Team School Nurse – Ms. Shamala S, Ms. Sujatha R, Ms. Sudha P, Ms. Navuful Asheeka M, Ms. Meenakshi T K Provides initial medical support and emergency care.
Flood & Monsoon Safety Team Ms. Mubarak, Ms. Lalitha S, Mokshitha S K (G9B), Kapilesh T (G10B) Preparedness and action during floods and heavy rains.
Earthquake & Structural Safety Team Facility Manager – Mr. Sathiya Raj R Structural safety inspections and earthquake preparedness.
Cyber Safety Team Mr. Pradeep Raj D, Mr. Anand S Promote cyber safety and handle online threats.
Psycho-Social Support Team Ms. Sudha K, Ms. Thirumagal K, Ms. Sudha P, Ms. Rony Joseph, Ms. Komal Grover Post-trauma care, emotional well-being programs and peer support.
Community Link Team Mr. Delhibabu A, Mr. Thanigachalam S, Mr. Anbazhagan K (Dwarakesh A – G9C), Ms. Gayathri K (Sukesh P – G8A), Ms. Ramya K (Giridhar M – G10B) Coordinate communication with families and the community during emergencies.
Bus Safety Team COLUMBUS – Ms. Bharathi P
CHALLENGER – Ms. Komal Grover
VOYAGER – Ms. Hajeera Begum A
EXPLORER – Ms. Sameera Jasmine Z
ATLANTIS – Ms. Shanmuga Priya S
ENDEAVOUR – Ms. Gayathri P
DISCOVERY – Ms. Kalaivani P
BEATLE – Ms. Sudha K
Ensure safe evacuation and headcount of bus students during emergencies.

SCB HEAD: Ms. Mubarak H A

Objective:

To empower students by nurturing leadership skills and promoting active participation in school governance, decision-making, and community building.

Core Responsibilities:
  • Conduct democratic elections to select student representatives.
  • Organise leadership training programs.
  • Mentor student leaders in managing school events and initiatives.
  • Provide platforms for student voice and participation.
  • Strengthen collaboration between students and administration.
House Advisors
House Advisor Co-Advisor
Alpines Ms. Vijayalakshmi S Ms. Thirumagal K
Grands Ms. Kasthuri Bai A Ms. Kalaivani P
Himalayans Ms. Bavya A Ms. Revathy V
Tylers Ms. Lalitha S Ms. Krishnapriya P R
SCB Office Bearers
Position Student
School Captain Mohammad Areeb A N - G10B
School Vice-Captain Jayashri - G10A
Sports Captain Andrew Kinsley A - G10B
Beyond Academics Captain Balayohith R - G10B
Secretary Vibushitha S - G10A
Treasurer Harosh P - G10B
House Leaders
House House Captain House Vice-Captain
Alpines Aishwarrya Nivasini J S - G9A Dhanvanth S - G9C
Grands Poojith Pandi B - G9C Stina I - G9A
Himalayans Nishal V - G9B Mokshitha S K - G9B
Tylers Madhusree M - G9B Manu Shri V - G9C
Objective:

To uphold the right to education for all students, ensuring inclusivity and access to quality education.

Responsibilities:
  • Ensure compliance with the provisions of the Right to Education Act.
  • Identify and address barriers to education for marginalized students.
  • Promote inclusive education practices within the school.
  • Advocate for the rights of students from underprivileged backgrounds.
  • Monitor and report progress on RTE implementation within the school.
Impact:

This committee ensures every child’s right to education is respected and fulfilled, creating a more equitable learning environment.

Objective:

To empower students by nurturing leadership skills and promoting active participation in school governance.

Responsibilities:
  • Organise student elections to select representatives democratically.
  • Develop leadership training programs, such as workshops on communication, teamwork, and decision-making.
  • Mentor student leaders to take up roles in organising school events, managing student clubs, and resolving peer issues.
  • Encourage students to voice their concerns and suggestions for school improvement.
  • Build collaboration between students and school administration to ensure student-centric policies.
Impact:

This committee helps develop future leaders by fostering responsibility, independence, and a sense of ownership among students.

HEAD OF OPERATIONS: Mr. Delhi Babu A

Objective:

To create an environmentally conscious school community and implement sustainable practices in daily operations.

Responsibilities:
  • Conduct awareness campaigns and workshops on climate change, waste management and sustainable living.
  • Oversee green initiatives such as tree planting drives, clean-up campaigns and recycling programs.
  • Promote energy-saving measures like reducing electricity and water usage on campus.
  • Collaborate with the community to implement eco-friendly practices beyond the school.
  • Monitor and report the school's environmental impact and suggest actionable improvements.
Role Member
Facility Manager Mr. Sathiya Raj R
Campus Upkeep Head Ms. Saraswathi S

PRINCIPAL: Mr. Prabakaran B

Objective:

To ensure the overall well-being of students and staff by promoting physical health, mental wellness, and nutritional awareness, fostering a supportive, inclusive, and healthy school environment.

Responsibilities:
Health and Nutrition:
  • Create awareness about the importance of balanced nutrition, personal hygiene, and healthy lifestyle practices.
  • Monitor and ensure food safety and hygiene on a daily basis including all school events.
Physical Fitness:
  • Organise regular fitness initiatives such as yoga sessions, physical activity programs, fitness challenges and sports events for students and staff.
  • Facilitate periodic health check-ups and coordinate vaccination drives for both students and staff.
Mental Health and Wellness:
  • Provide access to counselling support for students, staff and parents.
  • Conduct wellness programmes focusing on mental health, stress management, emotional well-being and mindfulness.
  • Train teachers to identify early signs of emotional or psychological concerns and provide initial support.
  • Establish safe and confidential spaces where students, staff and parents can express concerns and seek guidance.
Collaborations and Workshops:
  • Collaborate with healthcare professionals and experts to conduct health and wellness workshops.
  • Organise awareness campaigns on key themes such as stress management, resilience, emotional regulation and work-life balance.
Role Member(s)
Staff Nurse Ms. Shamala S
School Counsellor Ms. Ayshath Safwana
Teacher Representatives All Homeroom Teachers
Parent Representatives Dr. Meenakshi G (Dheeshith Vaibhav S - G3B)
Dr. Sakthivel M (Shanthan Sai M - G3A)
Student Representatives Kaarunya M - G8B
Sukesh P - G8A
Dwarakesh A - G10B
Sadana R - G10A

PRINCIPAL: Mr. Manimaran S (IL)

Objective:

The committee is tasked with developing strategies for improving student outcomes, integrating innovative technology, nurturing creativity and creating a research-oriented environment.

Roles and Responsibilities:
1. Incubation of Innovation
  • Act as a catalyst for introducing and piloting new teaching–learning approaches that move beyond rote learning.
  • Encourage experiential, inquiry-based, and interdisciplinary practices across classrooms.
  • Support teachers in designing and implementing innovative lesson plans and classroom strategies.
2. Collaboration
  • Work closely with Hubs of Learning and partner schools to exchange best practices, resources and ideas.
  • Co-create and adapt regional modules, projects and learning experiences.
  • Facilitate peer learning opportunities among teachers within and across schools.
3. Action Research
  • Promote a culture of reflective practice through action research among teachers.
  • Guide teachers in identifying classroom challenges, designing interventions and documenting outcomes.
  • Review and share findings to improve teaching practices and student learning outcomes.
4. Technology Integration
  • Support the meaningful integration of technology into teaching–learning processes.
  • Identify and recommend appropriate digital tools and platforms to enhance engagement and understanding.
  • Build teacher capacity to use technology effectively and responsibly in classrooms.
5. STREAM Fair (Science, Technology, Research, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics)
  • Plan and organise an annual STREAM Fair to showcase student learning, creativity and innovation.
  • Guide students in developing projects that demonstrate inquiry, problem-solving and interdisciplinary thinking.
  • Involve teachers, parents and the community to create a vibrant platform for sharing ideas and celebrating learning.
  • Establish clear criteria for project selection, presentation and evaluation.
  • Document and reflect on outcomes to inform future practices.
6. Monitoring and Documentation
  • Maintain records of initiatives, projects, research findings and outcomes.
  • Track the impact of innovations on student engagement and performance.
  • Submit periodic reports with insights, challenges and recommendations.
Domain / Role Representative
Science Ms. Nirmala, VIT
Technology Otomatiks
Research VIT
Arts Mr. Gururaj, NIT, Trichy
Math Smart C
Parent Volunteer Mr. Senthil Kumar K (Thanvi S - G4A)
Student Volunteer Dhafiya Sana F - G10A
Objective:

To promote cultural diversity, artistic expression, and creative talents among students.

Responsibilities:
  • Plan and organise cultural events, including festivals, talent shows, and inter-school competitions.
  • Provide opportunities for students to explore various art forms like dance, drama, music, and visual arts.
  • Collaborate with local artists and organizations to conduct workshops and exhibitions.
  • Encourage students to participate in national and international cultural programs.
  • Integrate cultural education into the school curriculum, promoting appreciation for diverse traditions and heritage.
Impact:

This committee enhances creativity, self-expression, and cultural awareness, contributing to the overall personality development of students.

Objective:

To enhance the professional growth and well-being of teachers, ensuring a motivated and high-performing faculty.

Responsibilities:
  • Plan regular professional development programs, workshops, and training sessions for teachers.
  • Encourage teachers to pursue advanced certifications and participate in educational conferences.
  • Recognise and reward outstanding contributions by teachers in academics and extracurricular activities.
  • Address teachers’ concerns regarding workload, facilities, and other professional needs.
  • Build a peer mentoring program to foster collaboration and mutual support among teachers.
Impact:

This committee promotes a culture of lifelong learning and professional satisfaction among teachers, leading to improved teaching quality.

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (S&O): Mr. P. Damodiran

Objective:

To foster lifelong connections between the school and its alumni, promoting mutual growth and contribution.

Responsibilities:
  • Organise events and networking opportunities for alumni.
  • Encourage alumni to share experiences, knowledge, and resources with the school community.
  • Facilitate mentorship programs where alumni guide current students and staff.
  • Mobilise alumni support for school initiatives, such as fundraising and skill development.
  • Maintain an updated database of alumni for effective communication and collaboration.
Role Member
Staff Representative Mr. Prabakaran B
President Mr. Subhash Chandra Bose K B
Vice-President Mr. Pavan B
General Secretary Ms. Lavanya P
Assistant General Secretary Mr. Vijay K
Treasurer Mr. Gokul K S