Implementing Democratic Learning Environment and Competences for Democratic Culture
in Preschools and Primary Schools
in the Czech Republic and Iceland
in Preschools and Primary Schools
in the Czech Republic and Iceland
OUR PROJECT IS ALMOST AT THE END...WE WILL SHARE ALL OUR OUTCOMES AND PHOTOS FROM COOPERATION SOON HERE
July 31th, 2023
My dear friends at Iceland,
As our two-year project partnership comes to an end, I find myself filled with mixed emotions. On one hand, I am sad to say goodbye to the wonderful times we've shared, the challenges we've overcome, and the friendship that has grown between us. On the other hand, I am grateful for the incredible journey we've been on together, and the lasting memories that will forever be etched in my heart.
Throughout these two years, we have not only achieved our project goals but have also formed a bond that goes beyond mere collaboration. You have been more than just colleagues; you have become friends who have been there to support and uplift each other through thick and thin.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering dedication, enthusiasm, and hard work that have made this partnership a success. Your unique talents and perspectives have added immense value to our shared endeavors, and I am truly inspired by the passion and commitment each of you brings to the table.
As we part ways on this project, please know that the friendships we've built are not bound by time or distance. I cherish the moments we've spent together, the laughter, the brainstorming sessions, and even the occasional challenges that have strengthened our connection.
I am confident that our paths will cross again, whether in a new project, a different endeavor, or simply in life's unexpected twists and turns. Until that day comes, I wish you all the best in your future pursuits and endeavors. May you continue to grow, achieve greatness, and find fulfillment in everything you do.
Thank you for being an integral part of this remarkable journey. Farewell, my dear friends, and may our friendship endure for years to come.
With warmest regards,
Tereza
on behalf of the Promoter's team
During the week of April 17-21, 2023, our school embarked on an exciting project called "The City Chýně." This unique endeavor involved students from grade 9 taking on the roles of business owners, while sixth and seventh graders were employed by them. It was a busy week for everyone involved, as they performed various tasks such as office work, cleaning, money counting, filling out receipts and employment contracts, and even facing fines or visiting the library and hospital. However, the students also had the opportunity to enjoy their free time during breaks, indulging in activities like visiting the cinema, gym, or a non-alcoholic bar.
This city project was developed as part of a two-year collaboration with Iceland, in which our school actively participated. We agreed to test one of their methodologies and adapt it to our local conditions. Our chosen task was to create a city, inspired by Iceland's approach of building a city for younger students in collaboration with parents and local companies. This year, we piloted this methodology successfully and intend to continue it in the coming years. Our target groups will be ninth graders and sixth graders, and we welcome collaboration with other institutions, companies, and parents.
We would like to extend our gratitude to all those who supported us by providing props and materials for the city project. Additionally, we thank Mr. Cihelka and Mr. Grégr for their valuable contribution of photos, videos, and lending furniture and equipment from Party Furniture s.r.o. The photos can be viewed on the school's website. We are excited to present the entire project at the upcoming international conference of student parliaments on May 24, 2023.
Once again, we express our heartfelt appreciation to all those who contributed to the success of this project.
Our partners from Iceland Leikskólinn Rjúpnahæð finally visited our school ZŠ a MŠ Chýně at the beginning of April. It's been an honor and true happiness to host such inspiring, enthusiastic, and heartfelt teachers who we proudly can call our friends. We had a wonderful time together, full of sharing, thoughts, and getting to know each other a little closer again, but also mutual work and plans for future weeks. Rjupnahaed's philosophy completed in the Handbook has been presented, read here.
There was an article about the international cooperation of primary school and kindergarten with partner schools in Iceland published in the autumn edition of the local newsletter in our village Chýně. We are happy that all fellow citizens in the village will learn about the experience of our teachers, and at the same time, we spread awareness about our project with the public.