Vellanki Rao, Founder-Chairman, Vista International School

The importance of education and the impact it has on a person’s life has been explored for over thousands of years. Towards that end, those involved in the process and pursuit of education have always been held in high regard. But the joy and fulfilment that can be experienced as an instrument in that pursuit is known to a precious few. 

About two decades ago, as part of my work responsibilities, my family and I would often visit a friend who ran a residential school. The atmosphere there was electric, to say the least. Fond memories of parents, students and staff all sharing a meal together on Sundays at the school ground still fill my heart with warmth. These encounters served as the very first seeds of thought planted in our minds regarding building our very own educational institution. 

The dreams come easy, and they come in plenty. To transform that dream into reality, a lot of grit and determination was required. As noble and inspiring the idea of starting our own institution felt, it wasn’t something that we were taking lightly. We were aware of the responsibility such an undertaking requires, and we were not going to commit to it unless we were a hundred percent sure that we could do justice to it. 

So we took it one step at a time. As a family, we overtook the responsibility of managing an educational institution. Our goal was to familiarise ourselves with the nature of the job, and the involvement it would require. It was a test for us to ensure that we were up to take on everything that comes as a part of running an institution that delivered holistic growth to the students. 

Another thought that lingered in our minds during the time we were contemplating on taking up this responsibility, was how increasingly cost intensive it was getting for parents to provide decent education to their children. We were determined not to be a part of the problem, but rather be a beacon of hope for hard working parents who wanted the best for their children without running their pockets dry. 

With a lot of hope, dreams and determination to stay true to our philosophies, we laid the foundation for Vista in 2011. The first year we started with 40 students – 40 families who trusted us and our vision. More than anything that we have achieved, I take pride in the fact that many of those first 40 families are still a part of the Vista family. With each passing year, our family grew and with them the school catapulted to its current state of grandeur.

Over the years, there have been a lot of changes that have been implemented – course corrections that have been done, and there are still a lot more dreams to achieve. But to this day, we remain steadfast in our belief that the school is our calling in life. All decisions taken, all changes implemented are always carefully thought, judiciously discussed and meticulously planned. To this day, we have operated as a close-knit family – parents and staff working in tandem to ensure that the Vistaians shine bright in their life. And I hope this bond will keep us strong in the coming years too.

Also read: Vista International School: Preparing students for a fast-paced world