Cultura escolar da “escola Reunida Ruy Barbosa” em Douradina-MT (1967-1974)

Abstract

This master's research is part of the research line “History of Education, Memory and Society” of the Graduate Program in Education (PPGEdu) at the Federal University of Grande Dourados (UFGD). It falls within the field of the History of Education, specifically within the History of School Institutions (HIE), with a focus on the history of education in the southern region of the former state of Mato Grosso (SMT). The general objective was to analyze the school culture, norms, and practices of the Escola Reunida Ruy Barbosa, in Douradina, during the period from 1967 to 1974, within the broader context of schooling in the SMT. The study sought to problematize the creation process of the institution, the transformations that occurred throughout its history, and the aspects of everyday school life, with emphasis on school culture. The time frame encompassed the period from the foundation of the school in 1967 to 1974, when it was renamed Escola Estadual de 1º Grau Barão do Rio Branco, as a result of the educational reform regulated by Law No. 5.692 of August 11, 1971, and its consequences. The adopted methodology combined documentary and bibliographic research. Written sources were analyzed, including press materials, messages from governors, school documents, and relevant legislation. The bibliographic research included books, academic articles, and essays, in both printed and digital formats. These sources were cross-referenced with iconographic materials and informal conversations. The relevance of this study lies in its commitment to shift the historical focus away from large urban centers and major national events, toward the writing of the history of education in the SMT, with an emphasis on local cultural and educational practices. The findings indicate that, between the late 1950s and early 1960s, the district of Douradina experienced significant growth driven by the “March to the West” movement. At the same time, regional authorities in the SMT demonstrated a growing concern with the creation of schools and the education of the population. Although the “school group” model was associated with modernity and progress and was attempted in Douradina, the “Escola Reunida” model remained in place until 1974. Escola Reunida Ruy Barbosa established a new school culture, a new order in the urban space, and a new vision of childhood. It synthesized the educational paths developed in Douradina and stood out for being the core – or perhaps the starting point – of demands and new needs for expanding local schooling and establishing institutions at other educational levels. It is expected that the insights provided by this research may contribute to the historical reconstruction of Escola Reunida Ruy Barbosa and of education in the southern region of the former state of Mato Grosso.