Ukraine students return to classes amid ongoing Russian attacks

Approximately 3.6 million children in Ukraine have returned to classes following summer break, though the start of the school year is heavily impacted by ongoing Russian military activity. About 2.2 million students are attending in-person, while 1.4 million are utilizing remote or hybrid learning models due to security concerns.

In Kyiv, schools are adapting to frequent air raid sirens and intense aerial attacks. Some institutions, such as the International School of Kyiv, have moved classrooms directly into basements to provide a more stable learning environment and prevent constant interruptions during alerts. This shift aims to create a sense of protection for students who previously had to rush to shelters during unpredictable missile and drone strikes.

Educational authorities have implemented strict safety protocols, advising against large gatherings and mandating immediate movement to shelters during drone or missile alerts. While some schools held small, adapted welcome ceremonies, many have prioritized safety by conducting initial lessons online or within reinforced underground spaces.