Pune Cantonment Board-run school to open 10+2 classes for wards

The Pune Cantonment Board (PCB) has decided to start plus-two level education in one of its school in Wanavdi, Shinde High School, in arts and commerce streams. While standard XI classes would start from this academic year, standard XII would start from next academic year.

It would be for the first time that the PCB, which runs three high schools and six primary schools, would start 10+2 education in one of its schools.

 “We will have XI standard from this academic year,” said principal of the school, Suhasini Sarande. “We will start with two classes, one each in arts and commerce.”

Sarande, whose school secured 67% in the SSC board exams, told DNA, “Most of my students who pass out drop out of education as they are from economically backward classes. This move will hopefully persuade them to carry forward their studies after standard X.”

The students are thrilled. “I thought that I would stop my studies as my parents will to be able afford junior college. But with my school introducing XI standard, I will continue,” said Swati Sonawane, a student who completed her X this year.

The proposal to start 10+2 in that school would be taken up during the PCB meeting, slated for June 20.  “We are sure that the proposal will be unanimously passed in the meeting,” said one of the elected members, Sangita Pawar. “Most of the children are from economically backward sections, and this will help them,” he added.