The results of Estonian schools often depend on the income of parents. For example, math results are better if parents are wealthier. This means that wealthier families can provide more help to their children, such as hiring private tutors.
The Estonian school network largely dates back to the Soviet era. Many schools are still in the same locations, and their size and number of students have changed over time. The quality of schools varies, which creates an education gap. For example, students from larger cities more often reach university.
Even free higher education did not increase the number of young people from rural areas reaching university. Exam results, especially in math, determine whether a young person can progress. For example, one in four students does not pass the basic school math final exam.
It is important to think about how to improve the situation in weaker schools. One option is to raise teachers' salaries, especially in more challenging schools and with more difficult subjects. Smaller classes and better working conditions would also help.
The education gap is also influenced by socio-economic background. If a family has financial problems, children's school results are worse. This shows that the economic situation affects education much more than we think.