A Connection to History and Community
On September 3 and 4, archaeologists, led by Dr. Tibor Ákos Rácz from Pázmány Péter Catholic University, began an excavation on the future campus site. Their work unearthed remarkable Árpád-age (895 - 1301) treasures, including a decorated ceramic fragment and the remnants of iron-smelting furnaces that once supplied tools and weapons to Hungary’s early rulers. These findings are particularly significant as they highlight the origins of the village of Nagykovácsi, whose name itself, with "kovács" meaning blacksmith, reflects the very ironwork once practiced on this spot. This discovery is an ancient footnote, and it’s also a living part of our community’s story.
True to our values of collaboration and community, the excavation was a shared endeavor. Dr. Rácz, a specialist in medieval archaeology and community-based research, included a local volunteer from Nagykovácsi in the project. This partnership transformed the dig into a shared treasure, strengthening the bond between the village and our school.
An Unforgettable Learning Experience
Students from all grade levels had the rare opportunity to visit the site, observing the artifacts as they were carefully revealed from the ground. Our Grade 1 students watched in awe, while the discovery held a special significance for our Grade 5 students, who are currently studying this very period in their curriculum. Students were able to talk directly with the archaeologists and see history emerge firsthand, reinforcing the power of learning through real-world experience. This aligns with our core belief in holistic learning and providing authentic application for students to apply their creativity, knowledge, and skills to real-world problems.
Looking Forward, Honoring the Past
The archaeological findings will continue to be studied, offering ongoing opportunities for learning. As we move forward with the development of our new campus, this discovery serves as a powerful reminder of the rich history that lies beneath our feet. It shows us how our past can inform our future, and it strengthens our sense of community by connecting us more deeply with the heritage of Nagykovácsi. This experience is a beautiful example of our mission in action: empowering learners to build their futures and contribute to a better world, with a sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of their place within the global community. We are truly Future-Ready Today.