In Latvia, the school year traditionally begins on the 1st of September, but this year, the start has been moved to the 2nd, as the 1st falls on a weekend. Known as “Zinību Diena” or “Knowledge Day,” it’s a day full of excitement and tradition. Children return to school with flowers for their teachers, dressed in their finest clothes. The day starts with ceremonies and the ringing of the first bell, symbolizing new beginnings and the promise of a year filled with learning and growth.
This slight shift to Monday doesn’t diminish the importance of the day. Parents, teachers, and students come together to mark the start of another educational journey, reflecting on past achievements and looking forward to the challenges ahead. The 2nd of September this year will carry the same joy and anticipation, reminding everyone that education is not just about learning facts, but about building a brighter future together.
In Latvia, secondary education is divided into two main stages:
- Basic School (Pamatskola): This includes grades 1 through 9 and is considered the primary and lower secondary education phase. Students complete their basic schooling around age 15.
- Secondary School (Vidusskola): This stage covers grades 10 through 12, and students typically start around age 16. The focus here is on preparing students for higher education or vocational training. At the end of this stage, students take the national secondary school exams, which are required for graduation and university admission.
The education system in Latvia emphasizes both general education and vocational training, allowing students to choose paths that align with their future goals.
My girls are in 3rd, 4th, and 6th grades this year!
Ilze
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a day in the life of a latvian mom 
All the best Ilze for a new academic year for your girls. May they study well and apply what they learn in life, instead of just being a book worm.
PS. You name sounds beautiful Ilze
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Thank you so much for your kind wishes! I completely agree—it’s so important for them to apply what they learn beyond the classroom. I’m excited to see how they grow this year. And thank you for the compliment on my name! How are things going for you?
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You are most welcome! Yes applying knowledge is important else it is not knowledge, as life main purpose is to serve others- sacrifice! Yeah, I think a mother would find utmost joy seeing their offspring grow, how lovely creation, just like God created us for his joy. Thank you for asking, I’m thinking about trying to export my products to customers beyond my country and make a lot of money :). I’m searching for artists to work with me on the visual designs in my products. Can I have your email address?
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Thank you for your thoughtful response! I agree that applying knowledge is essential for it to truly matter. However, I see the main purpose of life a bit differently—while sacrifice is noble, I believe it’s more about finding balance, joy, and connection with others.
As for your business, that sounds exciting! Expanding beyond your country could open up many opportunities. In Latvia, we actually don’t use the types of brooms you might be familiar with, so that’s an interesting difference in our cultures. I wish you the best of luck in finding the right artists to collaborate with.
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You are right. However the point is that going after balance, joy and connection with people might end up becoming selfish and you may not find it, but if you care singly about sacrifice (don’t take this word to be fiery or too serious 😊), then balance, joy and connection everything will be taken care of automatically, guaranteed!
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You make a compelling point. I see where you’re coming from—sometimes focusing on sacrifice can indeed lead to a deeper sense of balance and fulfillment. It’s interesting how our intentions can shape our experiences and connections with others. I appreciate your perspective and the thoughtfulness behind it! 😊
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