Наше життя в Україні: Back to School!

We started our second semester of language classes today!

We took flowers for our teacher...a traditional thing to do on the first day of school!

In front of the Ukraine map in our classroom...we took a picture in the same location on the first day of our first semester, too!

"The Day of Knowledge" - Sept. 1st

Believe it or not, the first day of school is a national holiday in Ukraine! The "Day of Knowledge" is celebrated on September 1st. On that day, all of the children go to school to participate in the "first bell" ceremony. Talk about pomp and circumstance! The "first bell" is especially exciting for the children in "first class" (or first grade) because they get to spend their first day at school!

We live across the street from a school, so we were able to "observe" this cultural event from our kitchen window! Even though September 1st was on a Saturday this year, the first day of school was still celebrated. Our missionary neighbors explained some of the traditions, too, so we wanted to share with you.

Older students generally give a welcome speech to all of the students. They recite poems, sing songs, and do choreographed dances. Of course, the presentation of the Ukrainian flag and playing of the national anthem are a part of the ceremony. The first grade classes are recognized as all of the students (dressed in uniform) walk two-by-two behind their teacher through the school yard. The students all carry flowers because it is traditional to give them to your teacher. Near the end of the ceremony, the "first bell" is rung. The youngest child in the school sits on the shoulders of the oldest student and rings a bell while they walk around the school yard--thus commencing the school year. After the ceremony is over, the students go to their class to have an short introductory lesson, receive their textbooks, meet their teacher, and greet their friends.

We took some photos from our 10th floor window. You can't see all the details, but we thought you might enjoy these pictures.

Parents and family members gathering in the center of the school yard to take pictures of their students. The "First Bell" ceremony is a celebration for the whole family!

Walking the Ukrainian flag around the school yard.


One of the first grade classes beginning their march around the school yard. They walked under the traditional Ukrainian cloths that you can see just underneath the school building. We're not sure of the exact symbolism of the cloths, but we know they are a part of many ceremonies, including weddings and other holidays.