State Policy in the Field of Public Education on the Example of the Management of Classical Gymnasiums in the 19th – Early 20th Century

The article is devoted to the analysis of the state policy of the Russian Empire in the field of management of classical gymnasiums in the 19th – early 20th century. The main principles of the organization of gymnasium education, its role in the formation of the intellectual and administrative elite, as well as the ideological function of these institutions are considered. The change in approaches to the management of gymnasiums in the context of socio-economic and political changes is shown. Attention is paid to the reforms of the educational system, which reflected the desire of the state to adapt to the challenges of the time, while preserving traditional values. The article identifies trends in modernization. The inconsistency of the state policy aimed at combining ideological and educational objectives is noted. The study emphasizes the importance of historical experience for understanding modern problems of education management. A conclusion is made about the need to take into account historical lessons to develop a balanced educational policy based on the harmony of traditions and innovations.