Participant in the regional “Young Person of the Year – 2026” competition “Leaders of Knowledge” category: Dmytro Kalashnyk
Dmytro Kalashnyk began his professional career in 2022, consciously choosing to become a physical education teacher. In his work, he draws on the concept of the New Ukrainian School, transforming traditional lessons into a space for teamwork, psychological support, and the development of essential life skills.
The teacher uses a competency-based approach and adapts the curriculum to students’ varying levels of preparation. Dmytro incorporates modern, flexible modules into the learning process: cheerleading, workout, outdoor adventure training, active games, and elements of military-patriotic education. In addition, he has developed his own system of quick competency-based homework assignments for students in grades 5–9, designed to foster healthy habits and involve families in active leisure activities.
During lessons, the teacher focuses on practical skills: safe behavior, the basics of first aid, and self-control. A separate focus of his work is national-patriotic education—Dmytro encourages students to participate in the all-Ukrainian military-sports game “Sokil” (“Dzhura”), as well as in regional physical education and health projects.
To advance digitalization and enhance his professional skills, the teacher regularly participates in specialized seminars, training sessions, and teaching competitions, incorporating new forms of physical education into the community’s daily practice.