Yekaterinburg teachers share lives and hobbies
Local teachers balance classroom work with vibrant passions beyond school walls.
We continue meeting the most beautiful teachers in Yekaterinburg who are taking part in the traditional E1.RU contest. These women manage not only to run classes, but also to ride ATVs, travel, and study foreign languages.
We published the first set of teachers’ stories in a separate piece. Teacher’s Day will be celebrated on 5 October — don’t forget to congratulate your favorite educators.
Helps children overcome the language barrier
Yekaterina uses interactive methods to connect with students in English classes.
Yekaterina Sukhina teaches English at School No. 50. She comes from a family of teachers, so she knows the challenges of working with children firsthand.
«I use interactive tasks and games to make language learning interesting and effective, — Yekaterina told E1.RU. — My main goal is to help students overcome the language barrier so every lesson is useful and engaging.»
Beauty queen!
Maria, 2023 winner, returns to share motivation and classroom inspiration.
You definitely know this teacher — Maria Antipina from School No. 22 was Yekaterinburg’s most beautiful teacher in 2023. She decided to test herself again to share the inspiration she draws from her students and her approach to life.
«A teacher’s inspiration can be the spark that ignites a desire to learn and grow,» Maria believes.
In her free time, this Yekaterinburg resident studies languages and plays the piano. A former student instilled her love of music.
«Hobbies help me develop, gain new impressions, and share them with children, showing that growth matters not only professionally but also internally, creatively, and physically, — Maria is convinced. — That’s why this year I enrolled in a postgraduate program to broaden my horizons, bring new ideas to school, and inspire children by my example.»
A master of many trades
Yevgeniya prepares graduates and leads a teachers’ methodological association at her school.
Yevgeniya Bulayeva graduated from the pedagogical university in Chelyabinsk in 2017, beginning her journey as a teacher of geography and economics. She now works at School No. 106.
«Every year I prepare children for their final exam, and I also head our methodological association,» the teacher said about herself.
A teacher’s task — to teach self-belief
Yelena teaches primary grades and serves as a social pedagogue.
Yelena Vinogradova is a primary school teacher and a school social pedagogue at Gimnaziya (Gymnasium) No. 205 ‘Teatr’. She helps little hearts learn, grow, and find their path in life.
«Every day for me is an opportunity to open a world of knowledge to children, help them overcome difficulties, and most importantly — teach them to believe in themselves. No awards or achievements can compare with children’s smiles when they understand a new topic or solve a hard problem, — Yelena told E1.RU. — It’s not always easy for children; sometimes they need support, understanding, and just a kind word.»
«I try to stay in touch with parents and help them when they feel lost,» the teacher added.
Returned to school and made the right choice
Arina crafts engaging activities so every child participates in class.
Arina Spivak is a primary school teacher at School No. 81. For four years she worked outside her profession, even though she had a teaching degree. A conversation with her best friend brought her back to school.
«I am madly in love with my job and never thought you could love other people’s children so much and care about them with all your heart and soul, — Arina told E1.RU. — It was my best decision — to become a teacher.»
After classes she crochets cute toys
Maria uses real-life tasks and rewards to spark interest in math.
Maria Zykova teaches computer science and mathematics at School No. 55 in Berezovsky (Sverdlovsk Oblast, near Yekaterinburg). At first it wasn’t easy: maintaining classroom discipline took effort, and finding an approach to each student was a real challenge.
«I started inventing games and real-life problems to make math clear and exciting, and I introduced a rewards system for students, — Maria said. — In some children’s reluctance to study, I saw a chance for my own growth. I supported them and helped them believe in themselves.»
In addition to working at school, Maria crochets small toys. It helps her relax and find balance after a busy school day.
«Crocheting for me is a kind of math in motion: I count every stitch and build patterns with specific logic. It lets me connect my passion for the exact sciences with my creative side,» Maria shared.
She mastered the subtle art of the tea ceremony
Anna brings Chinese tea ceremony insights to literature discussions with students.
Anna Shabanina teaches Russian language and literature at School No. 55. A great love of books pushed her toward teaching. Her hobby — studying the Chinese tea tradition — helped Anna find a special approach to children.
«For me, Russian language and literature are like an aged collectible tea: the deeper you go, the more shades of taste and meaning you discover, — the teacher says. — A literary text is like a tea leaf. You can’t just “pour boiling water” of summary over it; you have to know how to “brew” it. Each work, like each tea variety, needs its own “temperature” of discussion and “time” for reading.»
«I don’t just teach Russian; I teach the art of “brewing” words, so that a taste for good literature and competent speech stays with them for life,» the teacher added.
Talks about the challenges of science on TikTok
Darya blends experiments and field observations to make science engaging.
Darya Chernova has worked as a biology and chemistry teacher for four years; she started at Lyceum No. 110 and then moved to the private school “Mnogotochie”.
On her TikTok, the teacher posts lesson fragments, helpful tips, and even reminders that it’s time to turn in homework — and it works!
«For many kids, social networks are a natural environment, and I consider it important to be closer to them, speak the same language, and spark interest in science through what they truly understand,» Darya insists.
«We look at animals, observe plantings in the greenhouse, run experiments — and most importantly, we turn all of that into theory. Outside school, my students and I even play online games, where we manage to discuss lessons and what’s on their minds,» the teacher said.
Darya also has an unusual hobby: she collects all kinds of things — from LEGO figures to rare Coca-Cola cans from around the world.
She revealed the secret of unruly children
Maria runs a school book club and writes stories for all ages.
Maria Rabchevskaya works as a school psychologist at School No. 181, and after classes she writes stories for adults and children. In 2025, Maria took part in the “Mrs. Akademichesky” beauty pageant and received the “Mrs. Perfection” nomination.
«I organized a book club at school, and children go eagerly, — Maria says. — We start with books, and then you can’t stop them. In fact, children need love, warmth, understanding, attention, and kindness; if they receive that, they don’t need to act out just to be noticed.»
How to learn English easily and with joy
Angelina complements lessons with sports and design interests that motivate students.
Angelina Kondrakhina is an English teacher at School No. 123. Acquaintances invited her to work when the school lacked teachers; even after the staff was filled, Angelina didn’t leave her students.
For over five years, Angelina has studied the history of fashion and architecture, and in her free time she plays volleyball and squash with colleagues.
«There’s a common idea here: in both architecture and sports, the beauty of lines, clear structure, and precise calculation matter,» Angelina believes.
Angelina gave children very practical advice: don’t try to learn all the rules in one night.
«It’s like trying to watch every funny clip at once — your head spins and nothing sticks. It’s better to spend 15 minutes a day: watch a short video in English, listen to a song and parse the lyrics, repeat ten words,» the teacher is convinced.
Support from parents also matters; for children it’s like a like under a great post, but there’s no need to become a strict “grammar inspector”.
«I try not to give up and move forward with my class»
Anastasia teaches and studies social work at Ural State Pedagogical University.
Anastasia Chernyshova is a primary school teacher at School No. 75 and also serves as the principal’s adviser on upbringing and engagement with children’s public organizations.
«I love what I do and I’m proud of my students. The teaching path has many difficulties, but I try not to give up and to move forward together with my class, — says Anastasia. — My big dream is to create something meaningful for children and their parents.»
«Treat studying like building your wardrobe»
Yulia sews her own outfits and applies that craft to teaching.
Yulia Savchenko is a teacher of Russian language and literature at Kosulinskaya School No. 8 (Kosulino, Sverdlovsk Oblast). After lessons, she sits down at her sewing machine; her wardrobe already has many items she sewed herself and now wears with pleasure.
«It’s very much like a teacher’s work: from different “patches” of knowledge, patience, and effort, we create with students a strong and beautiful “fabric” of their education and inner world,» Yulia believes.
The teacher is sure parents should support a child’s interest in learning — ask not only about grades, but also what new things they learned, which book they liked and why.
«My advice to students: treat studying like building your wardrobe, — says Yulia Savchenko. — You can’t sew a good dress from poor fabric and crooked stitches.»
«It may not be visible from the outside, but without it there will be neither strength nor beauty,» the teacher added.
«We and the children are like one big family»
Yekaterina emphasizes respect, teamwork, and playful learning in early grades.
Yekaterina Bikmasova is a primary school teacher at Rural School No. 16 in the settlement of Krasny (Sverdlovsk Oblast). She devotes much time to patriotic education and, together with the children, takes part in many initiatives.
«A primary school teacher lays the foundation of knowledge and develops personal qualities, — Yekaterina said. — This school year my students moved up to Grade 3. At recess we play and make videos. My children are very friendly with each other; I pay great attention to ensuring they respect one another — we are like one big family.»
«Every class for me is one of a kind»
Yelena values close-knit rural classes and modern tools like interactive boards.
Yelena Inyutina is a primary school teacher at a rural school in the village of Gagarka (Sverdlovsk Oblast). The school may be small, but it’s modern — for example, there’s an interactive whiteboard in her classroom.
«Every class for me is one of a kind. You may have a lot of groundwork, but it’s not guaranteed to work in this class, — says Yelena. — Each child is a piece of my soul and heart. It’s wonderful when former students come running to share their news. Or when, first thing in the morning, they meet you at the entrance and help carry heavy bags of notebooks to the classroom. It’s in moments like these you understand why you chose this profession. You get charged with positivity and share it with your students.»
Everyone would be lucky to have this PE teacher!
Kristina is a young PE teacher starting her career with energy.
Kristina Semerikova is a teacher of physical education and technology in the small settlement of Malysheva (Sverdlovsk Oblast). She works at School No. 19. The young teacher is 22 and graduated from a pedagogical college with honors.
«My teaching path has only begun, but I think I can foster a love of healthy living in children,» Kristina says confidently.
The most high-energy teacher
Yelena’s step-dance performances and music enliven school events for students and parents.
Yelena Mikhaylova is a teacher of Russian language and literature at School No. 114. Outside class, she performs step dance at the Igor Petukhov Theater, plays the melodica and piano, and also hosts events.
«I take part each year in teachers’ creative contests “Bolshaya Peremena” and “Grani Talanta”, and I love to sing, — Yelena said. — Of all my hobbies, I single out step: it’s a dance that can’t leave anyone indifferent. Many children, once they see the dancers, catch fire with the desire to learn. My advice: don’t oppose a child’s desire — even if they don’t become a professional, they’ll gain knowledge and skills that will serve them many times in life.»
You’ve never seen so many talents!
Tatyana left teaching briefly, then returned, now also tutors chemistry.
Tatyana Sulaeva moved to Yekaterinburg from Chelyabinsk four years ago; she teaches chemistry at School No. 17.
This teacher has many hobbies: shooting, off-road buggies, tango, photography, snowboarding, rock climbing, speleology, trekking, and travel. She often visits animal shelters and donates money to them.
«Back when I was in school, chemistry immediately made sense to me, and that made me feel special, — Tatyana says. — The deeper I went into the science, the more delighted I became.»
Tatyana admitted that when she first came to work at a school, she lasted only two years, then quit. After a while she began to miss the way children’s eyes light up when they start to understand a difficult subject. She returned to school and now also tutors.
«To manage chemistry, you have to study on time, not be afraid to ask questions, and read books or watch online lessons, — the teacher advised. — As for discipline — disrespect and disruptive behavior in class often mirror what’s going on at home, in a child’s relationship with their parents.»
«If a child associates home and family with love, warmth, support, safety, and clear rules, then everything will be fine,» she added.
Both teacher and preschool educator
Nastasya teaches where she once studied and mentors young learners.
Nastasya Raskovalova teaches in the primary grades at Lyceum No. 12 — the same place she once sat at a desk for the first time. She fell in love with the profession thanks to her first teacher.
«For me, a teacher’s beauty is not only outward appearance, but above all the ability to kindle interest and self-belief, — Nastasya believes. — I led a robotics club, helping kids build their first “smart” machines, and this year I took a group of preschoolers — starting the journey into knowledge is exciting at any age.»
When children need an especially gentle approach
Svetlana supports children with intellectual disabilities through individualized psychological guidance.
Svetlana Kondina works as a school psychologist at Yekaterinburg Correctional School No. 1 for children with intellectual disabilities.
«My strength lies in gentleness, and my profession — in love, — says Svetlana. — In a space where each child needs a special key, I am that craftsperson who finds a unique path to a child’s heart. Reciprocity in children’s eyes is the highest reward for me.»
An avid athlete from the library
Darya guides readers and students, and competes in orienteering sports.
Darya Grechishkina heads the library realm at Gymnasium No. 45. She calls herself more simply — a “navigator”.
«I am a “navigator” in the world of books for my fifth-graders and a mentor in their first school discoveries as a homeroom teacher, — says Darya Grechishkina. — When I step outside the school doors, I become an athlete with a map and compass, plotting my route through a forest or unknown city streets. My hobby is orienteering.»
«In my library lessons, my students and I search for hidden meanings in texts and chart routes through literary universes, while at orienteering competitions I become the hero of my own adventure,» the teacher continued.
«I am sure that to teach children to overcome difficulties, you must know how to overcome them yourself; to set others alight — you must burn yourself!» Darya added.
She proved that making mistakes isn’t scary
Valentina promotes reading, studies German, and launched a school bookcrossing exchange.
Valentina Ageyeva is a teacher of German and Russian language and literature at School No. 147. She candidly admitted that in Grade 1 she read more slowly than anyone.
«Our teacher drew a cliff showing how many words we read per minute, and we — first-graders — were the climbers ascending. That cliff became a powerful motivator for me, — Valentina confessed. — In the evenings, I read books syllable by syllable with my parents. To this day, in The Golden Key many words are divided with a simple pencil mark because I couldn’t read them then.»
Valentina runs a blog where she publishes reviews of engaging books.
«Read when you feel bad — a book will calm you, advise you, put your thoughts in order, distract you,» Valentina advised children.
A femme fatale
Yelena teaches chemistry and serves as an OGE exam expert and competitions coordinator.
Yelena Zapadnova is a chemistry teacher at School No. 121; she moved to Yekaterinburg from the town of Turinsk (Sverdlovsk Oblast). You won’t believe it, but this stunner in an evening gown actually tears around on a quad bike and dances high-heels and hip-hop.
«It’s important to deliver knowledge not strictly by the textbook, but with enthusiasm and individuality, because every child is unique in their own way,» Yelena shared.
«People often come to me for advice and help not only on school or subject matters, but as to a friend — I’m with the kids 24/7,» Yelena added.
On 1 October we will launch the voting; it will run until 10:00 on 3 October. That same day you will learn the name of the most beautiful teacher in Yekaterinburg and Sverdlovsk Oblast.
Read an interview with the teacher who won last year. Irina Berdnikova not only teaches, but also shares advice with fellow educators on her blog.
