Headmistress, teacher and driver: Sister Mary wears many hats to keep this Kerala school running smoothly-OxBig News Network

For Sr. Mary Bona Lawrence, headmistress and teacher at Little Flower Lower Primary School at Vayalar in Alappuzha, duty goes far beyond the classroom. When the need arises, she steps behind the wheel of the school van, ensuring students reach school safely and on time.

The school, under the Diocese of Cochin, caters to children from economically modest backgrounds and operates with limited staff and resources. “There have been times when the regular driver is unavailable or the schedule is tight. In those moments, I do what I must,” says Sr. Mary who is a member of the Congregation of Franciscan Immaculate Sisters. “Getting the children to school in the morning and dropping them off at home in the evening is as important as what happens once they are inside the classroom.”

In fact, the nun used to be a teacher-cum-regular driver of the school van until she became the headmistress. This prompted the management to appoint a driver.

A native of Vaddy in Kollam, she learned to drive in Italy after moving there in 1994. After returning to Kerala in 2000, she obtained her driving licence. “I joined Little Flower Lower Primary School in 2006. Except for a four-year stint at a school in Kochi, the rest of my teaching career has been dedicated to the Vayalar school. As headmistress and teacher, I oversee academic activities and ensure that students receive quality instruction. I am happy to take on additional responsibilities and help the children in whatever way I can,” adds Sr. Mary.

The 51-year-old’s commitment has made a strong impression on parents, who speak with admiration about her hands-on approach and dedication. “Sister multitasks. Apart from teaching, she is also a skilled driver who handles the school van with ease. She loves the children and is very supportive. We are happy to have someone like her at the school,” says Tincy Varghese, vice president of the Parent-Teacher Association at Little Flower Lower Primary School.

The school has 101 students..