“Magnificent School Days”: Reflections of a Teacher at the Russian Parish School of St. Sergius of Radonezh at the Tolstoy Foundation

Dear Parishioners,

I would like to share with you some joyful memories from last month’s festive event and picnic held at the parish Russian school of St. Sergius of Radonezh, marking the end of our 18th academic year.

Following a beautiful tradition, the school invites parents, friends, and all parishioners after Sunday Liturgy to celebrate the end of another school year and reflect on its accomplishments.

Before the start of the formal program, a Moleben was served for all in attendance. As a parish school, one of our primary goals is to bring children into the life of the Church. A stage was set up for the ceremonial part, where the best students were called up to receive awards—medals and certificates recognizing not only their academic achievements but also their active participation in school events, attendance, and diligence. A particularly special and unique medal, “For Russianness,” which honors a deep expression of Russian national and cultural identity, was awarded this year—by teachers’ vote—to 9th-grade student Sophia Chabanyuk.

During the ceremony, heartfelt words were spoken again and again about the importance and necessity of preserving Russian culture, the proper use of the Russian language, and the beauty of Russian literature. The value of knowing Russian history, the basics of the Law of God, and a correct understanding of Church life was highlighted—all of which contribute to instilling true Christian values in the younger generation. To support this, the school has created a warm, trusting environment—a sense of a “school family”—a place where children genuinely want to come.

After the formal program, guests enjoyed a concert prepared by our students. Russian folk songs were performed, and our youngest students sang several cheerful Paschal (Easter) songs, which they lovingly dedicated to our dear Fr. Gregory. A touching and tender recitation of the poem “I Love You” by Eva Zudenko and Pavel Yeliseenko moved the audience. The children’s choir also performed the beloved song about Cheburashka. And of course, no one remained indifferent to the dance performance by our older students. They showcased their skill and beautiful choreography in the Russian Khorovod (traditional round dance) and the Moscow Quadrille. It must be said—the quadrille truly stole the show and won everyone’s hearts. Our talented and graceful dancers were called back for an encore of the Moscow Quadrille! What amazing, talented, and wonderful children we are blessed to watch grow before our very eyes!

After the concert, all guests were invited to enjoy a delicious picnic with homemade food, drinks, and sweets. I’m confident that everyone left not only with awards and medals, but also with joyful impressions that will become treasured memories.

“School years, those wondrous years,
With friendships, books, and songs,
How quickly they fly,
Never to return—
But do they really pass without a trace?
No—no one will ever forget…
Those school years…”

With warmest regards,
Oksana Rostislavovna Sanogo
Teacher of Russian Language and Music
Russian Parish School of St. Sergius of Radonezh
New York, June 2025