In the issue concerning the future of rural schools, the government must be ready for an individual approach and, in addition to the quality of education, take into account the regional political dimension as well, said Vadim Belobrovtsev, vice-chairman of the Riigikogu’s Center Party faction, during the discussion of an important national issue in the parliament on the topic “Strong rural schools and a strong school network”.
“Unfortunately, the policy introduced by the government led by the Reform Party approaches rural schools with a single yardstick, favoring their closure and the establishment of large schools located far from home,” said Belobrovtsev. “The lighthearted partial or complete closure of rural schools is a short-sighted step, nationally we should strive to ensure that children have the maximum opportunity for education close to home. Rural schools must be preserved because they are not just educational institutions, but sometimes vital centers in our communities. Preserving them is an investment in the future of children, in passing on culture and traditions, and in the sustainability of all of Estonia.”
According to Vadim Belobrovtsev, rural schools should not be taken as an excessive cost to the state budget, but as an opportunity to offer children individual education in a safe environment and preserve life in sparsely populated areas. “Often it is the school that keeps people from moving from smaller villages to big cities. The school is often the center of the community, a meeting place and a connecting link. Preserving rural schools also means strengthening the vitality and social cohesion of local communities,” said a member of the board of the Center Party.
Vadim Belobrovtsev highlighted the flexible and individual approach of Kilingi-Nõmme Gymnasium director Erli Aasamets to both students and teachers, which could be an example for other educational institutions. “Steps taken at the right time, the involvement of experts in making important decisions, a functioning career model for teachers, a differentiated salary system, more active reception of children with special needs… There can be more such examples if the state is ready to work more effectively in this direction in cooperation with municipalities,” emphasized Belobrovtsev.
“The positive thing is that the issue related to rural schools has received wide coverage, and this gives hope that the parties will find the best solution in cooperation,” added Vadim Belobrovtsev. “We understand that organizing the school network is necessary and in some ways inevitable, but we have to choose the methods very carefully. The state and local governments can work together to find solutions to support the sustainability of rural schools. This includes investing in teacher training and using technology to overcome geographic barriers, and strengthening collaboration with communities.”
