Estonian Education Minister Kristina Kallas announced plans to clarify the guidelines on which educational tools schools are responsible for covering costs.
In a recent interview, Kristina Kallas, the Estonian Minister of Education and Research, discussed the need for more precise guidelines regarding which educational materials schools are expected to pay for. The current education laws do not clearly specify the primary educational tools like pencils and pens, leaving parents often unsure about what expenses they need to cover. Traditionally, basic supplies such as notebooks, writing instruments, backpacks, and gym shoes are considered essential materials that parents should provide.
Kallas noted that while the law currently emphasizes the school's responsibility to provide a range of educational resources, it does not mandate parents to cover the costs of certain items like sports equipment. This lack of clarity can lead to disparities in access to educational materials, potentially disadvantaging some students. By refining these guidelines, the ministry hopes to ensure equal access to necessary resources and reduce the financial burden on families.
The review of funding principles comes at a crucial time when discussions around educational equity are becoming more prominent in Estonia. Kallas's initiative aims to address these issues directly, fostering a more inclusive education system where all children have the tools they need to succeed, regardless of their parents' financial situation.
