This winter, children at the "Berizka" kindergarten and the Zelenopolska Gymnasium branch in Hleyuvatskyi community studied in warmth and comfort. With the support of Metinvest's Iron Ores in Kryvyi Rih, a major roof reconstruction of both institutions was carried out in full compliance with fire safety regulations.
Kindergarten "Berizka" is the only preschool in six villages of the Chervonensky council of prefects within Hleyuvatskyi community, home to over 1,200 residents. The two-storey building was originally constructed in 1968, and since then, only routine maintenance has been carried out. In recent years, the most pressing issue had been the roof, which required not just repairs but a complete reconstruction. Thanks to a request from the community and a cooperation agreement between the Hleyuvatskyi Village Council, Metinvest Iron Ores, and the NGO "Kryvyi Rih Foundation of the Future" – which oversaw the project's coordination – the problem was successfully resolved.
It took the builders six months to bring "Berizka’s" roof up to the required standards. In total, a major renovation covered an area of 850 m², including thermal insulation of the roof and ceilings, installation of a profiled sheet, air ducts, a drainage system, and lightning protection. The work began in the summer of last year and was completed by winter. Throughout this period, 15 staff members continued to hold classes for around 50 children. To ensure their safety, the community arranged a shelter within the kindergarten building for use during air raids.
Due to extensive wear and damage, the roof of the Zelenopolska Gymnasium branch also required a major reconstruction. The last repair was carried out a decade ago. The village, home to 585 residents, has nearly 70 students, including children from displaced families. At present, all students follow a blended learning approach, attending classes either in person or remotely, depending on the circumstances. To ensure their comfort and well-being, the roof was also restored. In addition to extensive work on the 719 m² roof, the building’s perimeter paving—part of the structure, which is now over 50 years old – was repaired, along with sections of brickwork above the windows.
"With the support of Metinvest Iron Ores in Kryvyi Rih, we have addressed a crucial issue for our community –ensuring the comfort and safety of our children. Before the renovation, the kindergarten suffered from persistent leaks through the ceiling and windows. The music and sports halls, where our children love to be active, were particularly affected. Now, they are dry and warm, as is the gymnasium branch. Despite regular maintenance in the classrooms, the wallpaper was constantly peeling, and the walls remained damp, especially after rainfall. Teachers and staff now remark that the premises have become significantly warmer and more comfortable. Just as importantly, during the reconstruction, the builders ensured compliance with fire safety regulations for educational institutions by installing lightning protection and treating the wooden roof structures with a specialised fire-retardant coating. Now, we just hope for peace, so our children can receive a quality education in a safe and comfortable environment," said Natalia NEGARA, Head of the Department of Education, Youth, Sports, Culture, and Tourism of the Hleyuvatskyi Village Council.
