Tread lightly with our national schools

This article was first published by the Hairenik Weekly on November 22, 2024 and has been translated for the Armenian Weekly by Ara Nazarian, Ph.D. Since the earliest days of the Armenian Diaspora, our national schools (ազգային վարժարաններ) have carried an unwavering mission: to preserve the Armenian identity within our communities abroad. Our national spirit has steadfastly upheld this mission, with its success guaranteed by the dedication and commitment of Armenians passionate about educating future generations. Today, those entrusted with the leadership of Armenian national schools must honor and uphold this century-old calling. Our national schools cannot be viewed merely as educational institutions. Beyond their role in academics, they remain the cornerstone of Armenian national education and identity. Thus, we urge careful stewardship of our Armenian national schools. Every effort must be made and every resource must be expended to ensure that these schools continue to fulfill their vital mission without compromise. The quality of education and the mission must go hand in hand. Enhancing the quality of education has always been, and must continue to be, a key aspiration of Armenian national schools. However, this should never come at the expense of their historical mission. Prioritizing a purely educational framework undermines the foundation of these schools, distorts their unique role and diminishes their responsibility to build an Armenian national education. Paradoxically, such an approach does not even guarantee improved academic outcomes. Belief in the mission is non-negotiable. The survival of Armenian national schools depends on Armenians who believe in their educational mission. Those who approach these institutions solely as conventional educational establishments cannot serve as their true guardians or stewards. Defend against anti-national influences. At a time when our national values are under attack, Armenian schools must be steadfastly protected from anti-national ideologies and influences. Any erosion of their mission risks catastrophic consequences for the character and values of our younger generation. Reject hollow “practical solutions.” Under the guise of practicality, one must resist adopting so-called “solutions” that contradict the core mission of Armenian national schools. Such measures, even when presented as pragmatic, will erode the spirit and essence of these institutions. This article arises from a deep concern about current trends that prioritize practicality, “studying” and the undervaluation of our national spirit. These trends demand our immediate attention. Leaders tasked with guiding our educational institutions must exercise the utmost care in preserving and nurturing our national schools, safeguarding their mission for generations to come.

Tread lightly with our national schools

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Khajag Mgrdichian

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Khajag Mgrdichian

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