In the symphony of Education, Presentation Higher Secondary School’s history echoes with the harmonious notes of curiosity, the crescendo of accomplishments, the rhythm of collective brilliance and the glorious triumph of victory under the sole motto “From Darkness to Light.” Presentation Higher Secondary School follows the educational pedagogy of the Society of Presentation which is adequately fit in the dynamism of the vision and mission of the Presentation Congregation which traces its beginning in 1833 by two Italian young women, Francesca Butti and Maria Rossi. Its initiation was an answer to the call of the divine and a response to the needs of the locality. Hence they started with the education of youth and the little ones. The institution’s educational style is ‘Formation of heart’ cherished in the spirit of Eccomi and lived in the spirit of Accipe which is continued faithfully by the followers. In the course of time answering to the missionary call they reached Kerala, India.
The birth of PHSS has a story to be recounted. In 1972 a formation House for sisters were established in Chevayur, Kozhikode; a plot of 3 acres with a bungalow was purchased from Adv. Joseph Jacob Kynadi for the same. At the sight of sisters in the neighbourhood, three motivated young men of the place Late Mr. Alexander Zacharias -professor, Devagiri College, Mr. Jose Austin, and Mr. Palai K.M. Mathew approached the concerned authority; and put forward the request of starting an English Medium School in Chevayur as there was no such school in the vicinity. The school’s setup was a difficult undertaking. The bungalow within the compound had to function as the nursery school as well as the convent. Still the sisters joyfully opened the door to the little ones of neighbourhood and the nursery section started in the month of June 1973. 14 tiny tots were brought up under the care of Sr. Elizabeth who was the first Nursery Head Mistress as well as teacher. In June 1974, under the proficient guidance of Sr. Roselit, we witnessed the birth of Presentation Central School with classes 1 & 2. Sr. Leticia took charge in 79, with two year’s break came back in 82. The first batch wrote the C.B.S.E public exam in 1983 and came out in flying colours with 100% result and first rank in the state- 14th rank at all India level obtained by Mary Cherian.
On 22nd October 1980, the school received recognition and affiliation from the CBSE under the care of Mrs. Komalavally, a retired D.E.O who was appointed for three years. Adhering to NCERT recommendations, the CBSE pattern was implemented. In 1983, Sr. Leticia the then Principal with the close collaboration of the PTA, organized Yesudas– Night in view of collecting fund. It was a great success; a new block and a fully functional laboratory were set up.
The School management took necessary efforts to change the syllabus from CBSE Board to State Board due to the persistent request of the parents. Thus, in 1985 we received the permanent recognition of State Government for classes V to X and the Central school was changed into Presentation High School under Kerala State board. The School obtained the state recognition of the LP section enabling the LP, UP and High school to function as a composite unit. Owing to further progressive features, a new block was constructed in 1993–94. Sr. Regina John served as the Headmistress for 12 years from 1990 to 2002 bringing the school to new heights. The Silver Jubilee of PHSS celebrated in the academic year 1998-99 was a great event in the history of Presentation which left behind unforgettable memories. Another feather was added to the cap in 2002 with the opening of the Higher Secondary School with Sr. Regina as the first Principal and Sr. Roselit substituted her for a second term up to 2011. The school also got upgraded in 2005, allowing boys to continue to High School Section, which was hitherto till Class VII. In the academic year 2003-2004 Higher Secondary section started functioning as a separate block. The new building was named as Mother Lucina Memorial Block in loving memory of late Mother Lucina, our first Manager and Mission Superior. Sr. Betsy Maria and Sr. Philomena Mathew who guided the school for three and four years respectively and Sr. Christeena for one year also have left their marks in the annals of the school.
An institution started with handful of children in 1973 is now nurturing the dreams of more than 2300 students under the dynamic and efficient guidance of Sr. Leena Varghese, the present Head Mistress and visionary administrators, dedicated staff and supportive parents. The student community maintains excellence in academics and non academics bringing laurels to school, year after year. The school is a second home to the children and the infrastructure and facilities play a crucial role in creating a conducive and enriching educational process. Each classroom is equipped with modern technology to enhance the learning environment. The laboratories are well equipped with necessary apparatus and safety measures. The school library and class libraries are a valuable resource centre, housing an extensive collection of books and reference materials. The school prioritizes also physical activity with well-maintained sports facilities.
The voyage of the school spans five decades. Throughout this journey, generations of students have walked through its doors, each leaving their mark on its legacy. The academic year 2023 – 24 was an incredible year in the history of PHSS with the celebration of its Golden Jubilee. The School witnessed a wide range of artistic, social and cultural programs throughout the year and was concluded with a valedictory function inclusive of entertainment visuals.
With God’s grace and guidance, and under the maternal care of Mother Mary, our patroness, PHSS hopes to move forward with our priorities, innovations in our educational programmes, intellectual ambitions, globalization in education, value based heart formation and holistic development to build the future citizens of the world.