Ukrainian schools may refuse to use patronymics: what's next

Ukrainian teachers are actively discussing how students should address them. One geography teacher, Andriy Utkyn, shared his experience of changing the format of address on social media. The question is whether to use the traditional first name and patronymic or the modern 'Mr./Ms.' plus first name.

'In public schools, and sometimes in private ones, teachers are traditionally addressed as Andriy Oleksiyovych. And as soon as I turned into Oleksiyovych in the 'public sector', my self-esteem started to rise, my belly grew, and later my beard grew, becoming covered in gray hair. But my world turned upside down when in a private school, students started addressing me as: 'Mr. Andriy' (or just Andriy). And although my belly and beard are still in place, and my baldness is growing, I feel younger at heart. This form of address is much more pleasant for me. Isn't it normal?', – he wrote.

According to the teacher, this approach creates an atmosphere of respect without unnecessary formality, facilitating communication between students and teachers. Other teachers also expressed their views on changing the format of address.

Reaction to the new form of address

History teacher Zhanna, who has been working for over 20 years, noted that for her 'Ms. Zhanna' is a great option. Educators emphasize the importance of children seeing teachers not only as authority figures but also as conversation partners for open dialogue.

'Yes, it's normal. I am 45 years old. I have been working as a historian in a public institution for over 20 years. Now I have opened my own speech therapy office, and there I am 'Ms. Zhanna' for everyone. No alternatives. It's cool', – she noted.

Other teachers, like Valentyna, are happy that students call them by their first names and even plan to raise their own children in the same format of address.

Some Ukrainian teachers are considering and discussing new approaches to how students address them, based on the idea of creating a favorable atmosphere of respect and open communication in schools. Emphasis is placed on the importance of ensuring a comfortable environment for interaction between students and teachers.