Ukrainian Studies Schools in Portland have become one of the first educational institutions to pass verification by the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine. This means that the learning outcomes of their students are officially recognized in Ukraine.
This was reported by the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine (MES).
“Now, children living outside of Ukraine can study under the Ukrainian Studies component program in verified Saturday and Sunday schools. The learning outcomes in these institutions will be recognized in Ukraine, so children maintain a connection with Ukrainian education,” the report says.
The verification covered two Ukrainian Studies Schools located in Portland, which have been working for the Ukrainian community in American cities since 1998. The institutions are designed for an estimated 300 students and have 18 classes and clubs, 20 teachers – all with Ukrainian citizenship.
Study takes place in person, on weekends. Students study the Ukrainian language, literature, history, geography, civic education, and the subject “Defense of Ukraine” according to programs approved by the Ministry of Education and Science.
“The results of studies in these institutions will be recognized in Ukraine, so children maintain a connection with Ukrainian education,” the Ministry of Education and Science emphasized.
In primary grades, the Ukrainian component is taught in an integrated manner – through the course “I Explore the World”. For senior students, separate study of key subjects of the Ukrainian program is provided.
The goal of such schools is not only to transfer knowledge, but also to support Ukrainian identity: through communication in the Ukrainian language, preservation of traditions, and community unity.
Verification by the Ministry of Education and Science also extends to schools in other countries – in particular, in Germany, Poland, Great Britain, Slovakia, Azerbaijan, and the UAE. The process is ongoing, and more and more diaspora educational centers will be able to receive official recognition.
Photo: official website of the Ukrainian School of Knowledge
Author: Inna Mikhno