Polish parliament discusses measures to preserve rural schools and expand textbook funding.
Small Schools Protection
Adam Krzemiński, a reporter from the Civic Coalition, argued yesterday that closing small schools leads to negative consequences, specifically rural depopulation. The proposed legislation aims to strengthen these institutions by allowing them to host municipal tasks for local residents.
Additionally, Krzemiński emphasized that schools should not only focus on education but also promote civic activities through organizations like rural housewives circles and volunteer fire departments.
School Restructuring Plans
The legislation introduces the possibility for one main school to oversee multiple branch schools. In grades I-III, if the total number of students doesn’t exceed 12, these classes can be combined into a single section.
Schools with up to 70 students will extend their after-school programs to include preschool children. These measures are set to take effect from September 1, 2026.
Additionally, schools will be able to offer optional free afternoon snacks for children in after-school care. Municipalities will also create school districts to ensure schools operate on a single-shift system.
