Remember this bas-relief of a May bug. It marks the K. May School. This plaque commemorates a school with a rich history. The K. May School fostered many talented individuals.
Founded in 1856 the K. May School started as a private German boys’ school. Karl Ivanovich May himself led it. He embraced progressive educational ideas.
The school’s motto was: First love then teach. Educators were chosen for their high moral and professional qualities. Lev Uspensky said there were no obscurantists or bureaucrats at May. Instructors were selected for scholarly and educational gifts.
The K. May School system stipulated mutual respect between teachers and students. It encouraged cooperation with families. Educators aimed to develop each student’s abilities. Students were taught to think independently. This created a special atmosphere the May spirit. The school was diverse without discrimination. Swiss children studied alongside Russian princes.
Boys from various national diasporas were educated. Russians Germans and many more learned here. The K. May School strived to be human.
The school had two divisions. Latinists focused on humanities and ancient languages. Non-Latinists studied natural sciences preparing for engineering. For its first 25 years lessons were in German except for Russian language literature and history.
In 1909 a new building was built. It featured a bas-relief May bug above the entrance. The building had classrooms a library and a sports hall. Various circles were active including literary and historical societies.
During World War I the school became a field hospital. Students fulfilled auxiliary duties. After the war the school was nationalized. It became a Soviet United Labor School. Co-education was introduced.
In 1929 the school’s educators were replaced. The bas-relief above the entrance was destroyed. Later the school was reorganized.
Graduates achieved success in science and culture. More than 100 became Doctors of Science. In 1995 a memorial plaque was unveiled. It featured a recreated May bug bas-relief. The museum of the school’s history was opened.
The K. May School emphasized preparing youth for work useful to society. It valued internal enlightenment and strength of will. The example of the teacher was considered the most effective means of education. Trust in students was key to their success. The K. May School’s legacy lives on through this plaque. It reminds us of its dedication to education and fostering individual growth.