"... The life of the institute flows peacefully and correctly": business letters of S.F. Platonov to the honorary trustee of the ZHPI (1911–1912)

Abstract

The Russian education system made a significant step forward in the early twentieth century. The problem with teaching staff was solved, a significant role in this process was played by the Women's Pedagogical Institute, which made its first graduation in 1907. Then every year more than a hundred well-trained teachers came out of its walls, who quickly filled vacancies in different regions of the empire. The institute itself was going through a stage of development. During the stated period, a new "Regulation" on the institute was being developed – much attention is paid to this issue in the published documents. A decision has been made and funding has been secured for the new gymnasium building.

The business correspondence is so full of facts and details that fully allow us to draw up a picture of the hard work of the director of the Institute, who relied on the full support of the Honorary Trustee, who acted as a guarantor of the implementation of crucial issues for the progressive development of the educational institution.

The correspondence sent to the Marble Palace and the will of the Grand Duke inscribed on it affects many aspects of the daily life of the institute, the fate of many teachers and staff, including financial assistance to them.

It is becoming known that there were conflict situations and unhealthy rivalry among the Department.

The published materials are a wonderful source about the functioning of the housing and communal services, about the relationship between S. F. Platonov and the august representative of the Dynasty – its bright representative, a champion of the development of the education system, and in particular women's education.