On Wednesday, the top ten schools vying for the title of School of the Year 2026 were announced, and the public can cast their votes until next Friday on Novaator's subpage. This year's contest has seen significant updates to the evaluation system, as organizers required schools to complete a more comprehensive self-assessment questionnaire than in previous years. This new approach allows educational institutions to better highlight their best practices, thus serving as inspiration for other schools looking to improve their educational methods.

In judging the competing schools, panel members assessed the dedication displayed in the schools' introduction videos, which showcased their innovative solutions. Successful schools were noted for not filming their promotional videos at the last minute; some notably included changing seasons to demonstrate the teams' long-term preparation and ability to narrate their story coherently and consistently. According to a member of the jury, the principal of Kindluse School, some schools had even started their preparations very early, signaling a serious commitment to the competition.

This initiative not only promotes healthy competition amongst the schools but also aims to enhance the overall educational quality in Estonia. By learning from each other's best practices and innovative approaches, schools can foster an environment of inspiration and improvement, ultimately benefiting the students and the educational system as a whole.