Education Minister Kristina Kallas said there may be 300-400 students without a school place by September.
If a student is lost in the education system, the state does not know where they are. It is possible they are not attending school at all.
The minister said many students have not submitted applications. They may have gone to Ukraine for the summer and not returned. There are also Estonian children about whom there is no information.
Some students have submitted applications but have not received a school place. Kallas said keeping a student in the same class is not a solution. They need a new environment and support.
Preparatory education helps children who face major difficulties. But some teachers do not believe it helps everyone. The minister said it has helped in Finland.
The situation is most difficult in Tallinn. There are many students and few places. All upper secondary schools are full, but admissions are still ongoing.
Students move between schools. This is stressful and the system needs change.
Student council chairman Karl Erik Kirss said students need clarity. They need someone to talk to.
If a student does not speak Estonian, they are sent to preparatory education. This way the ministry knows how many places are needed.
Vocational schools have become more popular. More students attend them than before. The minister said this is a good option.
Kirss said vocational schools are not worse than upper secondary schools. But since upper secondary schools are full, students have to go to vocational schools.
Tallinn College of Technology has over 400 available places. If a student is interested in technology, they can go there.
If upper secondary school places are needed, one should contact the Tallinn Education Department.