Ureysk, a once-thriving village in Russia, faces a declining population, with the local school serving as its last anchor. This year, the school marked a unique occasion: only one student, Lada Utyuzhnikova, graduated from the 11th grade, a first in the school’s history. The event highlights the struggles of rural education and the dwindling opportunities that lead young people to leave their hometowns in search of a better future.

The “Last Bell” ceremony, a significant event for the entire village, took place in the school’s assembly hall, drawing the community together to celebrate Lada’s achievement and bid farewell to the ninth-grade students, all of whom plan to pursue vocational education in the city. The celebration featured traditional elements like speeches, songs, and gifts, emphasizing the close-knit relationships between students and teachers in the small school.

A power outage during the ceremony added an unexpected twist, but the teachers and students adapted creatively, filling the darkness with songs and games, showcasing the resilience and community spirit of the village. This interruption became a memorable moment, highlighting the school’s ability to overcome challenges and maintain a positive atmosphere despite the difficult circumstances.

Lada, described as a dedicated and active student, expressed a mix of pride and shyness at being the sole graduate, acknowledging the loneliness she sometimes felt but also appreciating the individual attention she received from her teachers. Her decision to stay in school despite the trend of leaving after the 9th grade was driven by her mother’s encouragement and her own desire to pursue higher education.

The school director, Natalia Nefedieva, reflected on the village’s decline and the challenges of maintaining a secondary school in a shrinking community. She noted the shift in students’ priorities towards vocational training and the economic factors that discourage them from pursuing higher education. Despite the difficulties, the school remains committed to providing education and supporting its students’ aspirations, whether they choose to stay or leave for better opportunities.