New assessment in schools from April. MEN calms down
A new school assessment has caused concern and criticism from the Ordo Iuris organization regarding family privacy and autonomy.
A new assessment system set to be implemented in Polish schools starting in April has sparked significant controversy, particularly among organizations such as Ordo Iuris. The organization’s president, Jerzy Kwaśniewski, voiced strong concerns about the potential invasion of family privacy, arguing that the educational system might shift towards surveillance rather than support. He urged parents to oppose the functional assessment, suggesting that it could lead to interventions in family autonomy, reminiscent of issues seen in some Scandinavian countries where educational evaluations have contributed to court actions regarding parental rights.
The functional assessment differs from traditional grading as it encompasses a broader scope of student evaluation, focusing not only on academic performance but also on how children manage everyday life in school and social settings. This holistic approach aims to provide a more rounded understanding of a student's capabilities. However, the Ministry of Education (MEN) clarified that this assessment is not a new mandatory procedure within the schooling system, which indicates an ongoing dialogue about educational reform and the nature of student evaluations in Poland.
As the debate unfolds, the MEN has sought to reassure the public that these assessments will not lead to unwarranted monitoring of families but rather aim to enhance the support offered to students. The tension between the MEN and organizations like Ordo Iuris highlights the broader societal discussions concerning privacy, educational practices, and government influence in family life, as stakeholders navigate the implications of new educational policies on family dynamics in Poland.