We will initiate changes to the Preschool and School Education Act, so that the declaration of non-school days by mayors is coordinated with the Ministry of Education and Science. This was announced by the Minister of Education and Science Krasimir Valchev at a briefing at the Council of Ministers. The purpose of the amendments will not be to take away the powers of local authorities, but to improve coordination between institutions and to have greater predictability for parents. Currently, the text of the law, which gives mayors the right to declare non-school days alone, is interpreted broadly and there are cases of abuse by local authorities.
According to him, the specific case in Sofia is not a reason for legislative changes. The Minister emphasized that there is an emergency situation in the capital, but the problem lies in the predictability and lack of timely, well-coordinated decisions. “The largest school in the capital has offered parents an option for students from 1st to 4th grade to be at school. Activities could be organized in more places as much and wherever possible, at least for the youngest students. This cannot ensure a full-fledged educational process, but a better decision could have been made – if schools had 2-3 hours more time for organization“, the Minister pointed out.
The proposal for changes to the Preschool and School Education Act is expected to be published within a month for public discussion along with other amendments initiated by the Ministry of Education and Science.