Nadezhda Cherkashina returns as head of Narva Language Lyceum

Narva city council member Nadezhda Cherkashina returned to work on Wednesday, September 9, as director of the Narva Language Lyceum, she told Rus.ERR, saying she resumed her duties following a ruling by the labour dispute commission.

The commission found that Cherkashina's dismissal had been unlawful. According to the director, the city and she have now reached a compromise, though she cannot disclose its terms because she signed a confidentiality commitment. Cherkashina confirmed she has already returned to her office and is dealing with current work matters.

A series of leadership changes

Cherkashina had led the Narva Language Lyceum since 2006. She was removed from the post in late May by the previous city administration under Katri Raik, which cited repeated serious violations in how the school and its teaching process were organised. After her dismissal, Sergei Sharkov temporarily served as acting director.

In June the city announced a competition for a permanent director, which was won by Svetlana Raudonen. She officially started work on August 24 but left the position after just nine working days, on September 4, citing disagreements with the leadership of the Narva city government's culture department.

Commenting on the criticism previously levelled against her, Cherkashina acknowledged there had been mistakes and shortcomings in the school's work, but argued they were not grounds for her dismissal. She noted that anyone who works makes mistakes, but that this was not the reason behind her removal.

Cherkashina said staff welcomed her return positively, with colleagues congratulating her. Looking ahead, she pointed to the lyceum's strong student results and expressed hope for the school's continued development, describing the team's ambitions as sound. Rus.ERR has not yet been able to obtain comment from Narva city authorities.