Zaporizhzhia students celebrate back-to-school amid air raid alarms

On a Sunday morning in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, schoolchildren gathered to celebrate the first day of school, despite the looming threat of war. Just hours before the ceremony, a dawn air raid alarm had sounded, highlighting the ongoing conflict that affects daily life in the region. With the front line only 40 kilometers away, the school community is acutely aware of the dangers posed by Russian artillery and missiles. Due to safety concerns, only students in their first and last years were permitted to participate in the parade, adhering to a ban on large gatherings. The event saw around 500 students attending, as approximately 300 had fled the war for safety. The school has adapted to the situation by alternating in-person and online classes, with a bomb shelter that can accommodate only 250 people. The youngest students attend classes daily in a specially prepared classroom above the basement, while older students alternate weeks of in-person and online learning. School director Kostiantyn Lypskyi emphasized the importance of safety, stating that the school is equipped to continue lessons during air raid alarms. The bomb shelter is located just 75 meters from the main building, ensuring that students have a safe space during emergencies. The ceremony proceeded without incident, showcasing resilience and hope amid adversity. Parents, like Olha Komarova-Lesko, expressed optimism for the school year, appreciating the opportunity for children to celebrate their education in a manner reminiscent of prewar times. This event symbolizes the determination of the community to maintain a sense of normalcy and joy despite the ongoing conflict.