27/04/2026
Yesterday, while riding in a cab, I did what I always do, I started a conversation.
I’m a very talkative person and almost always end up chatting with people around me.
The driver was warm and open. Soon, he began sharing about his family, his wife, and how they are struggling to make ends meet.
Then, with immense pride, he told me—
his younger son, in Class 2, studies in a “very standard” school with fees of ₹1 lakh per year.
I paused and gently asked him,
“What do you think this will lead to?”
He said, “He will get a good education.”
I replied,
“Yes, education is important. But what about comparison?
What happens when he realizes his parents cannot afford the lifestyle his peers have?”
I continued,
“When he starts asking for branded shoes or expensive things; how will you handle that?
Don’t you think he might start feeling less… or even develop resentment?”
He went silent for a moment and then said,
“You are right, madam. We never thought about it this way.”
I told him,
“A school doesn’t just teach academics. It shapes a child’s environment, mindset, and expectations.
And honestly, good education doesn’t only come from so-called ‘high-fi’ schools.”
I smiled and added,
“I studied in a ZP school myself; and I turned out just fine.”
When the ride ended, he thanked me repeatedly.
And I told him,
“It’s my responsibility to make parents aware—not just about choices, but about their consequences.”
💭 Tip: I would truly love to hear your thoughts on this.
Are we choosing schools for education… or for status?
— Dr. Shraddha Shalgar
