In a world where technology is changing so quickly and there are big differences in how well people can learn, there are teachers who want to change things. One of them is Claudiu Vlad, a history teacher and headmaster of the secondary school in Apateu, Arad county. His story is a lesson in having a clear vision for the future, never giving up, and loving education.
In 2006, Claudiu Vlad realised that the future of school lies in digital technology. He taught himself computer science so he could help his colleagues. He put a lot of time, energy and passion into completely transforming the school, and today, students in Apateu learn in a modern, digital and interactive environment.
"I never thought I would get everything I have now at school. What I dreamed has come true and I am glad that all this benefits our children", says Claudiu Vlad.
Every student who starts at the school gets an e-mail address and is shown how to use digital tools on the first day. The lessons are interactive, using modern platforms, and teachers, even if they were unsure at first, now see that they have improved and learning has become more effective.
"I was a bit surprised, it was new for us. But the headmaster explained everything to us, helped us, and we made progress," says one of her colleagues.
Students work together and actively take part in lessons. Instead of traditional dictations, they use digital platforms that encourage critical thinking and independence.
"It is much more interesting and educational to learn from the platform. I learn much faster this way", says one of the students.
Another great project is the digitised library. Each book has a barcode. Students can check online to see which books are available, reserve them, and after they have read them, they can write a review. Since the app was launched, more than 800 books have been read.
"When a student enters the library, they can see which books are available, reserve one, and receive it the next day from the librarian. They then have two weeks to read it, and then they write a review about it. Every month, they have to read at least one book. Since we launched the app, children have read over 800 books," explains teacher Vlad.
Claudiu Vlad's work shows that when one person believes in the potential of a community, the whole community can change. Parents say that the students come to school and that the teachers are dedicated and care about the children.
Every child who succeeds has a teacher who believed in them. Claudiu Vlad is one of these people. In 2025, he was enrolled in the "Exceptional Teachers League", a national campaign organised by the Dan Voiculescu Foundation for the Development of Romania. Until 31 May, anyone can nominate a teacher who has changed their life on the Dan Voiculescu Foundation website.
