The students prepared a project in slide format -- adapted for this publication -- about the school where they previously studied, Escola Municipal Getúlio Vargas.
Getúlio Vargas Municipal School: tradition, history, and love for education
Inaugurated on July 5, 1935, during the administration of mayor Pedro Ernesto and with then-president Getúlio Vargas in attendance, the Getúlio Vargas Municipal School was conceived within the Plano Diretor de Edificações Escolares (School Building Master Plan). This plan, devised by Anísio Teixeira, aimed to modernize Brazilian public education, drawing inspiration from the "Platoon" model observed in the United States. In this system, students moved between specialized classrooms, such as those for music, science, and arts, fostering more dynamic learning. The school's architecture is a landmark of early modernism in Brazil, using iron, glass, and concrete in smooth surfaces and wide corridors. The project was designed by architect Enéas Silva and follows the same pattern as the Escola Municipal Argentina, in Vila Isabel. Originally called Escola Bahia, its name was changed to Escola Getúlio Vargas on July 22, 1935. On June 21, 1990, it was listed as a historic landmark by the municipality, making it the only school in Rio de Janeiro's West Zone with this historic recognition.
Currently, Getúlio Vargas Municipal School offers a complete elementary education program, from 1st to 9th grade, in addition to special education services. The institution has a complete infrastructure to support students' educational development, including: a library with a diverse collection; an equipped computer lab; a sports court for physical activities; and an auditorium for events and presentations. In addition, it has accessibility resources, such as ramps and restrooms. The school remains committed to inclusion and welcoming, promoting a safe, respectful environment suitable for everyone's learning.
Recently, the Getúlio Vargas Municipal School began operating in the building previously occupied by the Idalice Nunes School. The change was approved by the school community and brought significant improvements in space and comfort. The new site has two pavilions: one designated for classrooms and another for the administrative sector, promoting better organization and convenience for students, teachers, and staff. The school's former building will be transformed into two important public facilities: a municipal public library, open to the community, and a Getúlio Vargas memorial, dedicated to preserving the institution's memory and honoring its historical journey in Rio's West Zone.
The trajectory of Escola Municipal Getúlio Vargas is also marked by people who left their dedication recorded in the memory of the entire school community. One of these names is that of the former principal Alexandre, who during his tenure demonstrated commitment to public education, to the well-being of the students, and to the appreciation of the teaching staff. Also deserving special mention is the much-loved inspector, a figure who was present and cherished by everyone. Even after retiring and no longer receiving a salary, she chose to keep coming to the school voluntarily, driven by her love for the school environment and for the children. Recently, her departure was determined by the new administration, closing a cycle that, although it did not have an official, ceremonious ending, will be forever cherished in the hearts of those who shared in her generous and constant presence.
Getúlio Vargas Municipal School is much more than a listed building or a place of learning. It is a symbol of committed public education, of living historical memory, and of the affection built up between generations. Over the course of almost a century, it has educated students, built stories, and remained a steadfast educational landmark in the West Zone of Rio de Janeiro.
This piece seeks to honor not only the architecture and institutional trajectory of the school, but, above all, the people who made and continue to make it a special place - among them, teachers, principals, inspectors, staff, students and family members. May this new phase be marked by respect for its history, appreciation of its roots, and commitment to the community.
