- 21 August, 2025
Hazaribag, Jharkhand, August 21, 2025 – As the Sisters of Mercy of the Holy Cross celebrate the bicentenary of their Cofounder, Blessed Maria Theresa Scherer, their mission of compassionate service continues to shine through St. Michael’s School for the Hearing Impaired, Hazaribag. Established in 1995, the school embodies Blessed Maria Theresa’s maxim: “Discover the grain of gold that lies in every person’s heart.”
Founded to serve children with hearing loss, the institution has grown steadily over the years. It now provides education from Classes 1 to 10 for 205 students drawn from Bihar and 11 districts of Jharkhand. Since its inception, 190 students have graduated with a 100% success rate in the SSC state examinations.
The school also provides hostel facilities for 115 students, supported by a dedicated team of 15 teachers and eight non-teaching staff who ensure a safe, nurturing, and joyful environment.
Vision and Mission
The school’s vision is rooted in sharing compassionate love with children with special needs, regardless of caste, creed, region, or religion. It seeks to empower them for equal participation in society and to live independent, dignified lives. Its mission focuses on preparing children with hearing impairment to face life’s challenges with courage and confidence through value-based education while creating equal opportunities for the deaf community in all walks of life.
Holistic Development
Alongside academics, the school places strong emphasis on overall growth. Students actively participate in painting, craft, yoga, dance, rangoli, and sports at district, state, and national levels, earning numerous awards. Vocational training in stitching, knitting, candle-making, and gardening equips them with practical life skills. Individual attention fosters personal growth, helping students build confidence, discover talents, and develop a positive self-image.
Parental and Community Engagement
The Sisters recognise the vital role of families and communities. The school runs awareness and sensitisation programmes for early identification and intervention, alongside parent training sessions that empower families to support their children’s development.
Challenges and Commitment
Despite significant achievements, the school faces challenges: limited knowledge of sign language among parents, lack of community awareness about rehabilitation needs, and insufficient government financial support. Communication also demands constant reliance on sign language, gestures, and visual aids.
Yet, strengthened by their founding charism, the Sisters remain steadfast in serving “the least in society” with compassionate love.
A Living Testimony
St. Michael’s School stands as a testimony to the belief that every child carries within them a “grain of gold.” Through quality education and holistic development, it continues to transform lives, empowering children with hearing impairment to contribute meaningfully to society.
By Sr. Tessy Churanadu SCSC
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