In Poland, elite high schools attract many students due to their high academic standards, but the pressure to succeed can be overwhelming. Reports have surfaced that students who do not meet specific academic levels are pressured to leave, with some being given ultimatums that state their continuation in the school is contingent upon transferring to another institution. One graduate recounted a severe case where they were told directly that their semester would be passed only if they changed schools, highlighting the intense competitiveness within these prestigious environments.

An experienced teacher from a top high school expressed concern about the competitive nature among educators as well, noting that teachers are feeling pressured to achieve results among their students. This pressure often comes from the administration, creating a cycle where the achievements of one group inadvertently raise expectations for another. Teachers, like the one interviewed, often find themselves in a race against each other to produce higher results, stressing the environment even further as parents and school officials demand more from their students.

The situation is further complicated by the trend of students from elite schools resorting to private tutoring to keep up with the academic demands placed upon them. The culture within these institutions often promotes an unrealistic standard that drives students to seek additional support outside of the classroom, illustrating the severe implications of the competitive atmosphere fostered in such elite educational settings. As these practices come to light, the broader implications for educational reform in Poland may need to be considered to address the mental well-being of students and the ethical responsibilities of educators and institutions alike.