Knowledge Day 2018: Steps of Growth

Knowledge Day at the Russian Language Academy in Charlotte is one of those beautiful, heartfelt moments in the life of every family whose children have chosen to study Russian as a heritage language. September 8, 2018 followed our traditional script, but with its own special touches and a distinctly Russian-American flavor. A sea of flowers, colorful backpacks, an abundance of t-shirts with logos and prints—and almost no white bows or satin bow ties... because they simply weren't needed! The atmosphere at our school is genuinely warm and welcoming.

A Blessing for the Year

Pastor Vyacheslav Paskal, following our established tradition, offered a prayer for the entire 2018-19 school year.

Vyacheslav Paskal, Pastor of Salvation Church, Charlotte: "I don't know who's happier about the start of the school year—the parents bringing their children to school, or the children themselves, beginning another year of learning Russian... We're all happy together! Larisa and I noticed that in just a couple more years, we could be issuing passports. This year, the school opened its seventeenth season. That's reason to celebrate. 'I rejoice that the Lord heard my voice.'" (Psalm 116:1)

Going Digital

The school building remained unchanged after summer break—still the wing of Salvation Church. But technologically, the school prepared thoroughly for the new year: journals, tests, and teacher documentation have all gone digital. The website has been completely redesigned. There you'll find information about teachers and classes, a photo gallery, firsthand reports about school life, a message from the director to parents, and original blogs including "Literary Review" and "Uppercase Truths." Instagram and Facebook profiles for the school are coming soon.

But even the most modern equipment, advanced software, online technologies, and artificial intelligence cannot replace a professional teacher in the classroom.

Voices from Our Teachers

Olga Glukhoman, teacher of the Malyshi class: "Today's students start much earlier. My generation went to school at 7 or 8 years old; now children start at 4. It may be challenging, but on the other hand, they're very developed and bright. This school year, I'll work hard to help the children gain more knowledge and learn something new—specifically, to learn more words and communicate better in Russian. I'll give them everything I can."

The Little Ones Speak

Lukas, Malyshi class: "My dad brought me to Russian school. I can draw beautifully, but I haven't learned to write yet."

Maxim, 1st grade: "I finished the Azbuka. My mom and grandma helped me. I really like reading. I want to get A's and gold stars."

Pavel, 1st grade: "My mom found this school. I really like speaking Russian because I was born in Belgorod, Russia. During vacation, I hung out with friends, played computer games, and did homework. I didn't read any books, but I'll start now."

The First Bell

The first bell of the 2018-19 school year rang! All the students went off to meet their teachers, gain knowledge, and enjoy each other's company. Parents stayed for a workshop on "Safe School."

Parent Perspectives

Denis Sarmanyuk, parent and Head of Safety: "This year I have responsible duties—I watch over order and safety. I want everyone who comes to school to feel welcome, and for the children to study with smiles on their faces. So we can all work and learn in peace. Three of my children attend the school. We have lots of books at home, and our favorite Azbuka has passed from my oldest son to my youngest."

Liza, mother: "I want my children to speak Russian and be able to pass this skill on to their own children. That's important!"

Alla, mother of two students: "My first day of school was long-awaited! It was a long time ago. They prepared us in kindergarten to go to first grade. I remember waking up in the morning and getting ready for school—flowers, supplies, a new backpack. Everything was new! So many memories and emotions! My first teacher's name was Tamara Vasilyevna."

Inna, mother: "I'm originally from St. Petersburg, and I'm so glad that here in Charlotte there's an opportunity for children to connect with Russian culture and study the Russian language and literature. This is very important for my daughter, who was born in America but has Russian roots. It will help her broaden her horizons and give her the chance to communicate with Russian-speaking friends."

Dreams and Friendships

Many children at our school come from large families. It's not unusual to see two or three students with the same last name in different classes—younger siblings following in their older brothers' and sisters' footsteps in learning Russian. For them, the first day of school is a step into the future.

Nikita, 1st Beginning class: "My friends went to Russian school, so I came too. I really liked it; this is my second year. I'm friends with Andrey, Mark, all the boys—I'm not friends with the girls yet."

Eva, 1st Beginning class: "I study because my mom said she would bring me to school. I want to learn to speak Russian better."

Mark, 1st Beginning class: "I like it here because I have lots of friends."

Andrey, 1st Beginning class: "I want to learn to read and write. I dream of becoming a soccer player."

Kristina, 1st Beginning class: "I come to Russian school because I want to study and be a good, smart girl."

Masha, 1st Beginning class: "My dad brought me to school. I really love Russian school because I feel like it's better than English school. Right now I'm reading three books—one about Neznaika, one about the brain and the human body, and the fairy tale Sleeping Beauty. In the future, I want to learn to heal hearts and brains."

Looking Forward Together

Last school year, about 150 students studied at our school. At its close, the children released bouquets of colorful balloons that drifted beautifully through the air. Now, in the 2018-19 year, new students have picked up that relay.

Larisa Glukhoman, Director: "The first bell has rung, and thank God, a new school year has begun! For our Russian School, it's the 17th! Children and teachers are happy to reunite after summer vacation. I congratulate everyone on the start of the 2018-2019 school year! I wish parents to be patient, attentive, and good helpers for their children. I wish our teachers an engaging, interesting year with polite, curious students who are persistent in their pursuit of knowledge. Then, at the end of the year, you will surely see the well-deserved success you've been waiting for. All the best for your successful school year! Blessings for the school year!"

Steps of Growth

Students will remember their first lesson for a long time. Not just because it brings them closer to next summer vacation... but because it's at school where everyone takes their first steps up the stairway of personal growth, learns to set both realistic and ambitious goals, and makes independent decisions.

Safe travels, young linguists!