Juliusz Słowacki 1st High School in Częstochowa

Juliusz Słowacki High School No. 1 in Częstochowa, established in 1907, is one of the oldest and most prestigious schools in the city. The history of this institution dates back to the 1870s, when the Girls' School was founded, with the first formal documents recorded in 1896. In 1907, it was transformed into a seven-grade Girls' Gymnasium, which later adopted the name of Juliusz Słowacki. The school played a significant role in the local educational landscape by introducing modern teaching methods and becoming a place of tolerance where students of different nationalities and faiths learned together. During World War II, the school resisted the occupation by organizing secret classes, allowing students to obtain gymnasium and high school diplomas despite the challenging conditions. After the war, the institution underwent changes, becoming co-educational in 1967. In recent years, the school celebrated its 100th anniversary by unveiling a statue of Juliusz Słowacki and enjoyed high demand, with 222 applicants for 192 spots in 2010. The high school has traditionally placed strong emphasis on cultural initiatives, such as organizing political debates and artistic activities. Throughout its history, the school has educated many notable alumni, including poets and professors, and thanks to the efforts of the Parents' Committee, students have had access to scholarships and organized trips. The school's anthem is "My Testament" by Juliusz Słowacki, and in 2008, formal attire was introduced, which is now only required for official ceremonies. Contemporary student achievements include numerous successes in academic competitions and contests, underscoring the high quality of education at this esteemed institution.