Kato Korakiana nursery school comes alive again
CORFU. "Is there a greater reward for their actions? Or rather, is there a better example for both young and old to follow? They taught us the meaning of teamwork, the desire for improvement, and the concept of selfless work in the best possible way, and they deserve our congratulations!"
The municipality was operating the Kato Korakiana Kindergarten building in a state that resembled an abandoned structure, making it extremely unwelcoming for the young children attending. Every morning, pupils and teachers were faced with crumbling walls, broken flower beds, peeling plaster and an overall image of neglect. It was a rather weird sight, considering that this space is meant to accommodate preschoolers.
Parents and friends, on their own initiative and with the approval of the school’s principal, came together as a team and brought new life to the damaged walls, benches and flower beds. They planted flowers and trees, patched and painted walls, then decorated them with cheerful images. Using their own money, they purchased wooden playground equipment, artificial grass, and many other improvements, with plans to add even more soon.
They took to the streets and managed to secure donations from local shops, receiving paints, brushes, and construction materials to support their efforts—contributions that proved invaluable. These were people who worked quietly, without seeking recognition or praise, creating an atmosphere so inspiring that anyone present would have wanted to pick up a brush and help.
They did it with love, and it shows in the results: a bright, colourful environment where children now play happily and never want to leave their schoolyard.
Is there a greater reward for their actions? Or rather, is there a better example for both young and old to follow? They taught us the meaning of teamwork, the drive for improvement, and the essence of selfless work in the best possible way, and they deserve our heartfelt congratulations!
The people in this story are many, they are real, they live among us. They have worries, responsibilities and busy lives, yet they worked for the common good—to leave behind a school environment filled with love for our children and to impart a powerful moral lesson: that determination is the greatest driving force!
ANNA YIANNOULI
Photos: Anna Yiannouli
