Metsküla Geriljakool Opens Its Doors with Record Enrollment METSKÜLA, ESTONIA – Metsküla geriljakool, a small private school operating in Lääneranna County, experienced a record-breaking first-grade enrollment on September 1, 2024. Twelve students, nine boys and three girls, attended the first grade, marking the largest class in the school’s history – a figure exceeding 100 years of records. School director Pille Kaisel stated that the enrollment was likely the highest since the 1920s. The school, which operates as a six-grade institution, currently has 34 students. Due to space constraints, one third-grade class was temporarily removed from enrollment this past week. The school plans to expand its dining capacity to accommodate the increased student population, with longer school breaks and extended recess periods. The school’s operation has been characterized by challenges, including a temporary closure by the Lääneranna County council and subsequent operation as a “geriljakool” (guerrilla school) due to local authority restrictions. Despite these obstacles, parents continued to transport their children to the school. “Kool ise on oluline, kui kooli ei oleks oluline, siis me ei oleks vastu pidanud,” Kaisel emphasized, highlighting the school’s importance to the community. Community support has been crucial to the school’s survival. Parents, including Püü Polma, who sent his child to the school, expressed concerns about the difficulties faced during the previous academic year. Polma noted the significant emotional and logistical strain on families and the school community. Financial sustainability remains a key challenge. While the school’s operations generate revenue, it faces ongoing rent payments to the Lääneranna County council and a shortfall in funding compared to the school’s budget. The school currently collects 50 euros per month for tuition, in addition to a 500 euro monthly rent payment. The school is awaiting the implementation of state funding for schools, which will cover teacher salaries and school supplies. The opening day featured traditional elements such as flowers, the Estonian national anthem, and gifts for the first-grade students, including a Tiiu Maasiku pencil case and student passes. A notable moment occurred when first-grade student Artur Kaasik questioned whether students could also participate in addressing the audience, demonstrating the students’ engagement and initiative. The school’s motto, “Metsküla kool peab jääma!” (Metsküla school must remain!), was prominently displayed on a wall. Topics: #geriljakool #kui #kunagi Post navigation Sunday comes in cool and rainy weather Anekdote: you try to catch a fish in a forbidden area!