Keyword: «creative initiative»

The article examines the educational policy of the Russian Empire during the reign of Alexander III (1881–1894). Contrary to the established historiographical view of the strictly conservative nature of the educational system during the counter-reforms era, the authors identify and analyze forms of pedagogical initiative and creativity. Special attention is paid to teaching methods in classical gymnasiums and real schools, as well as students' extracurricular activities. The conclusion is substantiated that the educational environment of the late 19th century was a complex synthesis of administrative regulation and local pedagogical creativity, which paved the way for the educational reforms of the early 20th century.