The Polish Council of Ministers adopted an amendment to the Education Law on Wednesday, establishing a national Student Rights Ombudsman and clarifying student-teacher regulations.
System of Ombudsmen and New School Rules
The amendment introduces the mandatory establishment of school councils from September 1, 2028, a change from the previous optional status. The rationale behind this is that a representative body including students, teachers, and parents will positively influence school operations and enhance student self-governance.
The proposed regulations foresee a comprehensive structure of ombudsmen, including a national Student Rights Ombudsman appointed by the minister for a four-year term (with the possibility of one re-election) through an open and competitive recruitment process. Alongside the national ombudsman, 16 provincial ombudsmen will operate within educational authorities, and school ombudsmen will be appointed from student government representatives.
Changes to Student Rights and Responsibilities
The changes also guarantee students the statutory right to decide on their own attire and appearance, adhering to “generally accepted social norms.” The amendment also outlines a catalog of student obligations and disciplinary measures, including written reprimands, warnings, and warnings with a threat of further action, to be applied when other educational interventions prove insufficient.
Government Hopes to Avoid Presidential Veto
Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized at the beginning of the government meeting that he hopes the bill will not be vetoed by Karol Nawrocki. He expressed hope that no one would consider doing so.
Currently, neither the President nor his office has taken a position on the matter, according to Kacper Lawera. The Ministry of National Education (MEN) will make every effort to convince Karol Nawrocki to sign the bill.
Mixed Reactions to the Reform
Paweł Mrozek, founder of the Student Action, welcomed the Council of Ministers’ decision, stating it is a step in the right direction, ending arbitrary bans on student appearance and treating students as subjects rather than objects. The introduction of the Student Rights Ombudsman is seen as a signal of greater recognition of their rights.
However, Mrozek also noted the regulation is incomplete and being implemented with delay. Critics argue the bill lacks strong mechanisms to protect against discrimination, psychological and physical violence, and abuse in schools, both from adults towards students and among students themselves.
Consultations and Survey Results
The MEN notes that the bill underwent extensive public consultations, with approximately 700 comments and opinions received, many of which were incorporated. Initial plans to strengthen legal protection for teachers and pedagogical staff, including granting them public official status, were abandoned due to criticism.
A survey conducted on the Integrated Education Platform with 18,389 participants showed 46.65% positive responses, while 13.76% were negative. 39.58% of respondents expressed no opinion.
