Onassis Schools: New Admission Framework – 60% 'Local' Students and Defined Geographic Zones
Greece's education ministry has established a new admissions framework for public Onassis schools, ensuring that 60% of students come from the local community and outlining geographic zones.
The Greek Minister of Education, Sofia Zacharakis, has signed a ministerial decision establishing a new framework for public Onassis schools, which specifies geographic responsibility zones and the admission percentage for local students. This decision emphasizes the importance of integrating local residents into the school community by mandating that at least 60% of the students admitted must be 'locals' as defined by their usual place of residence. To qualify, candidates need to provide documentation proving their residency.
The admission process for the first grade of middle and high schools will be conducted through examinations and/or a skills test, either separately or in combination. Importantly, participation in these entrance examinations is open to applicants from any place of residence within the same Regional Education Directorate. However, when it comes to the final selection of students for each school unit, the usual place of residence will be weighed alongside geographical criteria, ensuring that local community members are prioritized in the admissions process.
This new strategy aims to enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of educational institutions for local populations, fostering a community-oriented approach in education. The implication of this move is significant; it not only supports local families by giving their children a priority in education but also strengthens the bond between schools and their surrounding communities. This decision reflects a shift towards recognizing the role of local identity in educational institutions and guiding the development of future educational policies in Greece.