Mikołaj Kopernik High School No. 1 in Łódź

Mikołaj Kopernik High School No. 1 in Łódź is the oldest state-run Polish secondary school in the city, with a rich history dating back to 1905. That year, in response to student strikes in the Russian partition, the Committee for Supporting the Establishment of a Polish Secondary School was formed. The school began its operations on October 17, 1906, and its first building was located on Wólczańska Street. It went through various stages of transformation, changing its name and status, until in 1919 it became the first secondary educational institution in Łódź to be nationalized. Its patron, Nicolaus Copernicus, was officially assigned to the school in 1920, and a symbolic banner was funded in 1938. During World War II, the school faced numerous difficulties, including destruction and repression, but educational activities resumed in 1945. Architecturally, the high school building resembles a large urban tenement house, characterized by restrained detailing and large windows, which classify it as an early modernist style. In the 21st century, the school continued to evolve by introducing new programs and modernizing its infrastructure, as well as engaging students through the development of scientific facilities, such as a telescope in the physics laboratory. Culturally, the high school is distinguished by numerous achievements in education and artistic activities, as well as by supporting students in various subject Olympiads. Among its alumni are outstanding figures from various fields, including science, culture, sports, and politics, reflecting the institution's important role in Polish society. With many successes, such as high rankings in national school listings, Mikołaj Kopernik High School No. 1 attracts attention not only locally but also nationwide, becoming a symbol of educational and patriotic tradition. Interestingly, alongside traditional teaching, the school is also involved in scouting and educational activities, organizing secret teaching during the occupation and maintaining strong ties with former students through the activities of the Alumni Association.