On a recent Friday, members of the Polish Parliament convened for the 51st session of the 10th term. As part of the day’s intense agenda, they voted on a proposed law concerning small schools, which aims to address the issue of closing down smaller primary schools across the country. The Ministry of Education (MEN) has prepared solutions that include the possibility of creating branches of primary schools and allowing local governments to utilize vacant spaces in educational facilities for community purposes.

During the voting session, which began shortly after 10 AM, a total of 236 MPs supported the legislation, while 180 opposed it, and 18 abstained. This approval reflects a significant interest in maintaining educational institutions in smaller communities, recognizing their value in fostering local engagement and educational access. The push for this legislation comes amid ongoing debates about the future of smaller educational facilities in Poland, especially in light of shifting demographics and resource allocation.

Katarzyna Lubnauer, the Deputy Minister of Education, spoke to Polish Radio before the voting, explaining that the concept of small schools was developed to respond to the community's needs rather than merely closing them down. This legislation not only signifies a political commitment to preserving smaller schools but also suggests a broader mandate for educational reform aimed at adapting to local needs and ensuring that communities continue to have access to education even as demographic shifts occur.