About

Dynamic educational leader with over 27 years of experience in school teaching, administration, and leadership. Proven expertise in founding and developing schools, mentoring educators, and driving academic excellence. Recognized nationally for contributions to education and teacher development. Certified Wellness and Yoga Coach dedicated to holisfic education and inclusive school culture.

  • City: Mumbai, India
  • Phone: 9004768459
  • Email: norinafernandes07@gmail.com
  • Email: eecl639@gmail.com

Interests

Educational Leadership

School Development

Students Mentoring & Development

Teacher and Principal Mentoring

Inclusive Education

Wellness, Mindfulness & Yoga

Curriculum Innovation

Community and Parent Engagement

Education

Certified Wellness & Yoga Coach / Yoga Therapist

May 2020 - August 2023
Relevant Coursework
  • Therapeutic Applications of Yoga
  • Yoga Philosophy and Psychology
  • Anatomy and Physiology for Yoga

Certified Advanced Teacher Trainer

May 2016 - August 2020
Relevant Coursework
  • Yoga Concepts
  • Yoga Techniques
  • Anatomy and Physiology Integration

MBA - Business Development and Strategy

October 2020 - August 2021
Relevant Coursework
  • Strategic Management
  • Entrepreneurship and Innovation
  • Business Development and Market Expansion

Master of Arts - History

April 2014 - March 2016
Relevant Coursework
  • Thematic or Regional Specialization
  • Modern and Contemporary History
  • Historiography and Historical Methods

Master of Arts - Philosophy

May 1995 - April 1997
Relevant Coursework
  • Ethics and Moral Philosophy
  • Metaphysics and Epistemology
  • Philosophy of Mind and Language

Bachelor of Education

April 1991 - March 1993
Relevant Coursework
  • Educational Psychology
  • Foundations of Education
  • Curriculum and Instruction

Bachelor of Science - Microbiology & EVS

May 1982 - April 1985
Relevant Coursework
  • Microbial Physiology and Metabolism
  • Medical Microbiology and Immunology
  • Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering

Extra Certification

TRAINING FOR IPAD IN
EDUCATION

TRAINING FOR MANAGEMENT IN EDUCATION

Experience

EECL (Empowered Educators Coach Leaders)

June 2020 - Present

Founder

  • Empowers individuals to take ownership, make decisions, and solve problems independently.
  • Focuses on education and skill development through training, coaching, and mentorship.
  • Applies a coaching leadership style, offering guidance, feedback, and support.
  • Builds a culture of trust, collaboration, and positive relationships within teams.
  • Drives performance, innovation, and development of future leaders for organizational success.

AISM (Association of Indian School Managements)

March 2020 - Present

Life Member

  • Engaged in national-level dialogues on school leadership, governance, and educational reform.
  • Contributed to workshops, conferences, and policy discussions aimed at enhancing school management practices.
  • Collaborated with a network of principals, trustees, and educational leaders to share best practices and innovative strategies.
  • Advocated for inclusive education, quality assurance, and holistic student development across school systems.
  • Participated in capacity-building programs supporting school excellence and teacher development.

EUMIND (Europe Meets India)

November 2006 - Present

Joint Secretary

  • Coordinated cross-cultural exchange programs between Indian and European partner schools, facilitating virtual and physical interactions.
  • Assisted in managing international student collaboration projects, including digital magazines, video conferences, and joint research activities.
  • Ensured seamless communication and documentation across member schools by supporting the Secretary and handling operational logistics.
  • Promoted values of global citizenship, inclusivity, and sustainability through strategic event planning and content development.
  • Contributed to the execution of digital learning platforms, maintaining timelines and quality standards in project outcomes.

SVKM Group of Schools, Maharashtra

November 2022 - November 2024

Deputy Director of Education

  • Managed and coordinated schools across Shirpur, Dhule, and Mumbai, covering various education boards.
  • Enhanced academic standards and co-curricular activities.
  • Designed and implemented a Life Skills Program teaching students creative skills and cultural values in Shirpur and Dhule schools.
  • Curated and conducted a Leadership Workshop Program for Principals at NMIMS, training school leaders across boards in progressive educational management.

Podar International School, Mira Road

2020 - 2022

Founder Principal

  • Led smooth transition to online learning during COVID-19, ensuring uninterrupted education.
  • Successfully established and led the school during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Building academic and operational structures from inception.

Lilavatibai Podar High School, Mumbai

2001 - 2019

Principal

  • Launched Techno Fest (Gizmos Geek), an annual technology and interdisciplinary event involving over 63 ICSE schools across India, promoting coding, music, drama, art, science, dance, and fashion.
  • Initiated Teacherathon, a national event to train teachers in technology and leadership skills.
  • Established Podar International School, Mira Road as a fully online school, overseeing recruitment, teacher training, and parent orientation.
  • Developed EECL (Empowered Educators, Coach Leaders) to train and certify teachers and principals, many of whom now hold leadership roles.

Lilavatibai Podar High School, Mumbai

1992 - 2001

Teacher

  • Highly effective teacher known for innovative, engaging classroom practices that inspire students.
  • Proven expertise in founding and developing schools, designing academic programs, and implementing educational innovations.
  • Experienced mentor who trains and supports educators, helping them build modern teaching skills and leadership capacity.
  • Strong advocate for inclusive, student-centered school environments where both academic excellence and emotional growth are prioritized.

CISCE School, Kolkata

September 2005 - February 2012

Trainer for CISCE School Principals

  • Designed and delivered professional development programs for school leaders across CISCE-affiliated institutions.
  • Conducted 10 training batches, covering leadership skills, academic excellence, and innovative school management practices.
  • Empowered principals with strategies for effective administration, technology integration, and holistic education approaches.

Convener - Mumbai Zone

June 2008 - May 2017

Convener Mumbai North-west Zone-D

  • Supervised and coordinated Board examination activities across multiple schools.
  • Ensured strict compliance with examination regulations and maintained confidentiality and integrity of exam processes.
  • Managed communication and logistics between schools and examination authorities to ensure smooth operations.

Projects

Leadership & Management of High-Performing School Teams
Evolving Cultures At School Professional Development Program
Igniting Educators Through Reading Resoures
Teacher Well-being and Mental Health
Leadweship Excellence Conclave 2025
Leadweship Excellence Conclave 2025

Skills

Educational Leadership

Educational leadership involves guiding and managing educational institutions to achieve academic excellence. Effective leaders set a clear vision, support teachers, and promote a positive learning environment. They use data-driven decision-making to solve problems and improve school performance. Building strong relationships with students, staff, and the community is also essential. Overall, educational leadership plays a crucial role in shaping successful learning outcomes.

School development

School development is the process of improving the quality and effectiveness of a school. It involves enhancing teaching methods, upgrading facilities, and promoting student well-being. Strong leadership, collaboration among staff, and community involvement are key to this progress. Continuous evaluation and innovation help address challenges and meet educational goals. Ultimately, school development aims to create a better learning environment for all students.

Wellness and mindfulness

Wellness and mindfulness focus on maintaining a healthy body and a calm, focused mind. Practicing mindfulness helps individuals manage stress, improve concentration, and enhance emotional well-being. Wellness includes physical health, mental balance, and positive lifestyle choices. Together, they support a more peaceful, productive, and fulfilling life. In schools and workplaces, promoting wellness and mindfulness can lead to better performance and happier communities.

Teacher and Principal Mentoring

Teacher and principal mentoring is essential for professional growth and improved school leadership. It involves experienced educators guiding less experienced ones through regular support, feedback, and collaboration. Mentoring builds confidence, enhances teaching strategies, and fosters strong leadership skills. It also helps create a culture of continuous improvement in schools. Ultimately, it leads to better student outcomes and a more cohesive school environment.

Inclusive Education

Inclusive education ensures that all students, regardless of abilities or backgrounds, have equal access to learning. It promotes a supportive environment where diversity is respected and every child feels valued. Teachers adapt their methods to meet varied learning needs, fostering empathy and collaboration. Inclusive education benefits all learners by encouraging acceptance and social growth. It plays a crucial role in building a more just and equitable society.

Yoga and Emotional Well-being

Yoga supports emotional well-being by promoting relaxation, self-awareness, and mental clarity. Regular practice helps reduce stress and anxiety, improving focus and emotional balance. In schools, yoga can enhance students' self-control, confidence, and classroom behavior. It also encourages healthy habits and mindfulness from a young age. Integrating yoga into daily routines supports a holistic approach to education and wellness.

Curriculum Innovation

Curriculum innovation involves updating teaching content and methods to meet the needs of modern learners. It includes integrating technology, real-world skills, and interdisciplinary learning. Innovative curricula keep students engaged and prepare them for future challenges. Teachers play a key role in experimenting with new ideas and approaches. This ongoing improvement helps education remain relevant and impactful.

Community and Parent Engagement

Community and parent engagement is vital for student success and school improvement. When families and communities are actively involved, students feel more supported and motivated. It encourages shared responsibility for learning and builds trust between schools and families. Engagement can take many forms, from volunteering to decision-making roles. Strong partnerships lead to better educational experiences and stronger school communities.

Contact

My Address

Manish Nagar

J P Road, Andheri (West)

Mumbai -400053

Social Profiles

Email

norinafernandes07@gmail.com

eecl639@gmail.com

Contact

9004768459