As the new school year begins in Ukraine, children are facing the daunting reality of attending classes while under the constant threat of Russian airstrikes. Many students in Kyiv and surrounding regions are forced to take shelter underground or in modified classrooms due to air raid alerts. Despite the dangers, approximately 240,000 first-graders are set to start their education this year, with many schools implementing flexible teaching methods to adapt to the ongoing crisis. President Zelenskyy has criticized European allies for their lack of urgency amid continued assaults on Ukrainian cities, emphasizing the importance of safety over traditional school ceremonies. Authorities in Kyiv are encouraging schools to minimize mass gatherings during this uncertain period, highlighting that the focus remains on the wellbeing of students and educators.