Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “No new schools were opened in Minsk this year. Of the 30 private schools nationwide, only five have not been shut down. And starting this school year, children in grades 5-6 will have lessons on patriotism and morals. The shortage of teachers in Belarus has been worsening for years. And this makes parents increasingly wonder: who will teach our children?
A professional who sincerely wants to share knowledge? Or a school ideologue with a “teaching” plan full of propaganda?
I think each of you knows the answer: the regime only needs those who do what they are told to do without second thoughts.
Nevertheless, schools still have teachers who strive to teach children something they will need in life, and who will leave pleasant memories of school years. Their further reading lists encourage children to read [Belarusian writers] Bykau, Karatkevich, and Alexievich. They prepare engaging lessons and quizzes, involving children in the world of science. Such people sincerely love their work and preserve what the regime tries to take away from children: initiative, critical thinking, and a thirst for knowledge.
What such teachers contribute to the future of our children is invaluable. Thank you for your courage to continue such vital work in today’s situation. Thank you for staying truthful and standing up to your principles”.
