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The nationwide educational conference "August 2024," organized by the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, once again brought together top speakers from Ukraine and around the world to discuss the transformations and challenges of modern education.

The School of Superheroes, a state institution, joined the discussion on what the upcoming school year will look like and what key decisions should guide the modern educational process. During the panel discussion on alternative education, Nataliia Zhilinska, Director of the State Institution "School of Superheroes," participated alongside Liubomyr Shymkiv, Tymur Demchuk, and Anna Putsova. Here are the key takeaways:

“Alternative education is not always a choice, at least not for the School of Superheroes. Our children did not choose the path of superheroes—their fate decided for them. But it is within our power to ensure that while they are in the hospital, they choose education,” emphasized Nataliia Zhilinska.

She noted that despite associations with the term "state" implying a rigid system, the School of Superheroes is indeed alternative. It focuses on the individual needs of each child, making it adaptable and flexible.

For a teacher at the School of Superheroes, there is an alternative approach. The same lesson can have up to four different scenarios. One, when the child is feeling well, and the lesson takes place in the classroom. A different scenario occurs when the child is bedridden (due to chemotherapy or an IV drip), and the lesson takes place at the bedside. The third scenario involves group lessons for children with varying levels of knowledge. The realities of the current situation have even added lessons in bomb shelters. Despite the different settings, all lessons must be equally effective.

The learning environment also plays a crucial role in the perception and effectiveness of the educational process. The School of Superheroes has its unique experience here, with nearly 270 elements of identity reflected in ergonomic furniture, visuals, and the distinctive uniforms of the teaching staff. The brand is now fully established, and from the moment children enter the hospital, they proceed directly to school.

"We are currently receiving constant requests from regions to open educational spaces in hospitals. The myth that a school in a hospital is merely formal has been shattered. Now, the learning process in hospitals is natural, necessary, and effective," said Nataliia Zhilinska.