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When speaking about DEIS (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility) initiatives within the context of my work at Zaporizhzhia Gymnasium No. 109, this approach serves as the foundation of our daily educational and upbringing philosophy. Especially now, under the conditions of a frontline city, these values have taken on a new, vital significance.
A prominent practical realization of these principles is our active implementation of coding activities within the framework of Europe’s Code Week, alongside our status as official participants in the Code Week Grant Program. This allows us to secure additional resources to make technology even more open and inclusive for our entire community.
Here are the key initiatives that I implement alongside my institution through the prism of DEIS philosophy and Code Week projects:
1. Diversity & Equity (In STEM/IT)
Engaging Girls in Technology (Girls in STEM): I actively break down stereotypes that IT is a “male-dominated” field. By involving girls in no-code app development (Glide), coding, AI studies (Experience AI), and participation in robotics competitions (WRO, FII), we ensure equal starting opportunities for all students, regardless of gender. During Code Week events, we place a special emphasis on girls’ digital creativity, shattering any existing biases.
Access to Innovation for Everyone: Regardless of a child’s initial level of digital skills or whether they have a computer at home, the material and technical support from the Code Week Grant Program allows us to provide everyone with the opportunity to try their hand at modern projects—from the 4th grade (where the initial spark for STEM is lit) to high school. We design a low barrier to entry so that every student can feel like a successful creator of code.
2. Inclusion (And Psychological Support)
Education Under Martial Law and Coding in Shelters: Creating an inclusive, safe environment inside the shelters during air raid sirens. Even during Code Week hackathons or workshops, we adapt the learning process so that children with varying levels of anxiety and emotional distress feel included and supported in their work. Collaborative coding or team-based algorithmic tasks in the shelter become a form of art therapy for the children, helping them detach from stress.
A Space of Trust Within the Class: As a class teacher, I implement principles of empathy and mutual support. We learn to be a unified team where everyone’s individuality is respected, navigating challenges together, traveling, and standing by each other during landmark moments (like our graduation waltz in the pouring rain and hail).
3. Accessibility (To Education and Digital Literacy)
Bridging the Digital Divide and Safe Coding: Through participation in programs like “Be Internet Awesome” and “Learn to Discern”, we make digital safety and media literacy accessible and understandable for every student and their parents. Within the scope of Code Week, we teach children not just how to code, but also how to understand cyber safety and data protection, transforming the internet into a secure environment for all.
Flexible Learning Formats: Developing adaptive learning materials for blended and remote formats. We select cloud-based and no-code tools that can be easily accessed even from a basic smartphone with a weak internet connection. This ensures continuous access to quality IT education for children who remain in the city, as well as those who were forced to relocate.
My Core DEIS Principle: Every child has the right to a modern, safe, and inspiring education. Thanks to initiatives like Code Week, we don’t just teach technology—we build an environment where every individual voice maters.
