Nurturing Ukrainian Language, Faith, and Culture for the Next Generation
St. Patrick Community School
#300, 56 Holt Street, Red Deer, Alberta
Saturdays, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
Curriculum
At Ridna Shkola, learning is rooted in love for the Ukrainian language and heritage. The school follows the successful model of Ridna Shkola in Edmonton, integrating modern teaching methods and interactive learning activities that engage children of all ages.
Students study Ukrainian language and literature, history, geography, catechism, and Ukrainian studies, while also exploring their faith and culture in meaningful ways connected to everyday life.
For younger learners, classes use the Bukvar primer by Ishchenko O., Lohachevska S., while older students study Ukrainian Language and Literature (Grades 3–4) by Vashulenko M., Vasylkivska N., Dubovyk S. Lessons are interactive, inspiring curiosity, confidence, and pride in Ukrainian identity.
Traditions & Celebrations
Life at Ridna Shkola is filled with the joy of Ukrainian traditions and the rhythms of the Church year. Students celebrate beloved feasts such as St. Nicholas Day, Christmas with caroling and festive songs, the Day of the Ukrainian Kerchief, and the birthday of Taras Shevchenko, honoring the great poet of our nation.
They also take part in Palm Sunday, the Annunciation, and Easter celebrations, learning the meaning behind these holy days and keeping their faith alive through prayer, song, and community traditions.
Beyond the classroom, families and teachers work together to strengthen community life — from preparing and selling homemade varenyky to support the school, to joining province-wide cultural projects and competitions with other Ukrainian schools in Alberta, such as exploring “What connects Indigenous peoples of Alberta and Ukrainians.” These experiences deepen cultural pride and foster a strong sense of unity.
Students & Classes
Today, the school welcomes 40 students who gather each week to learn and celebrate their heritage. Children are divided into three groups — kindergarten, grade 3, grade 4— according to age and language level.
Every Saturday for three hours at St. Patrick Community School, classrooms come alive with Ukrainian speech, laughter, and discovery. Students not only gain knowledge but also form lasting friendships and a strong connection to their roots.
Leadership & Community
Ridna Shkola thrives thanks to the dedication of its team and the vision of Fr. Jim Nakonechny, pastor of St. Vladimir Parish, whose initiative brought new life to Ukrainian Saturday education in Red Deer.
The school is guided by Director Olga Polish, Administrator Viktoria Moroz, Treasurer Yuliia Martseliuk, and Assistant Vira Korol— a team united by love for Ukrainian faith, language, and culture.
Community Spirit
Ridna Shkola is more than a school — it is a living, caring community. Teachers, parents, and students work hand in hand to keep Ukrainian heritage and the Catholic faith vibrant for the next generation.
Through shared efforts, cultural events, and collaboration with the parish, the school continues to grow as a place where children feel connected to their roots, families find belonging, and traditions are passed on with joy and purpose.