St. Cyril and Methodius Secondary School, Garmen: a school that proves that success is possible for every child
Rubric “Shared by the Regional Coordinator”
Today, the regional pedagogical coordinator for Southwestern Bulgaria, Katya Dimitrova, will introduce you to one of the schools, part of the “Mission Excellent: Inspired to Succeed” network.
In the heart of the municipality of Garmen is the Secondary School “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” – a school with long-standing traditions, high educational results and a clear mission: for every child to have a chance for a quality education and a successful future.
Over the years, the school has established itself as an educational and cultural center for the local community. Today, it is led by the director Stoyan Strugov, who last school year was awarded the prestigious “Ivan Rilski” diploma for his overall contribution to the field of education – recognition of his work and dedication to the development of the school.
The results of the students are particularly impressive. All graduates successfully pass the state matriculation exams, and the average success rate in the State Matriculation Exams and the National External Assessment is above the average for Bulgaria. These achievements are even more significant, considering that a large part of the students come from vulnerable social groups and in most cases do not attend private lessons. Their success is primarily the result of the perseverance of the children, the support of the parents and the professionalism of the teachers.
The school is an example of how inclusive education can yield excellent results. Every year, two classes in the first grade are formed, and all children from the settlement are included in the education system. This is evidence of the trust of the parents and the active work of the school team to prevent school dropout.
Secondary School “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” is a long-standing participant in the network of the Center for Interethnic Dialogue and Tolerance “Amalipe”. Through joint work with the organization, the school implements numerous initiatives aimed at educational integration, the active participation of parents and the creation of a tolerant school environment. The experience gained over the years has contributed to the establishment of the school as a good example of successful work in a multicultural environment.
The school is also proud of the “Iskritsa” cheerleading squad, created and trained by primary school teacher Ani Razmanova. Thanks to her enthusiasm and dedication, the squad has achieved impressive successes at the national level. At the “Sunny Besapara” competition, the cheerleaders won first place in the “100-meter parade” discipline and another first place in stage performance. Among participants from different cities of the country, “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” Secondary School is the only school from Blagoevgrad district that represents the region.
The school also works actively on various educational projects that expand the opportunities for students’ development and enrich school life. Two projects are currently being implemented, aimed at improving the educational environment and encouraging the active participation of children.
The history of “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” Secondary School – Garmen is a story of hard work, continuity and faith in the potential of every child. It proves that when the school, family and community work together, success is possible regardless of social background or life difficulties. That is why the school continues to be an example of quality, accessible and inclusive education in the Blagoevgrad region.
Author: Katya Dimitrova
The network of schools “Mission Excelent: Inspired to Succeed” was established in connection with the “Every Student Will Be an Excelent” Program, funded by the Trust for Social Achievement
Trust for Social Achievement (TSA) is a non-governmental organization whose mission is to break the vicious cycle of poverty by promoting opportunities that help Bulgaria’s most disadvantaged citizens achieve educational and economic success. TSA supports programs that, through their integrity, growth potential, and transparency, help improve the well-being of Bulgaria’s poorest people, with a special focus on Roma.