The Ministry of Education and Research and the City of Tallinn are discussing changes to the school network. Currently, no schools are being closed or merged. There are plans to increase the number of state gymnasiums in Tallinn. However, the plans are awaiting state funding.
The goal of the city and the state is to provide a better system. Currently in Tallinn, primary schools and gymnasiums are often in the same building. Indrek Riisaar, who heads the state gymnasium program, says decisions have not yet been made. The ministry is studying the city's population and student distribution.
Currently, two state gymnasiums are being built in Tallinn. They will be completed by 2031. More funding is needed to build additional schools. It is also hoped that vocational schools will attract more young people to study.
Tallinn has many different schools, such as the French Lyceum or the English College. These may not become primary schools. For example, in Tartu and Narva, 20% of students remain in city schools.
The Ministry of Education and Research believes Tallinn should have seven state gymnasiums. In addition, there are several special schools. The state wants gymnasiums to be under state responsibility by 2035.
The City of Tallinn wants clear plans from the state. The city wants students to have more choices. Andrei Kante, who works in education, says the schools in Lasnamäe and Mustamäe are not enough for everyone.
A special commission is working in Tallinn to propose changes to the school network. The city wants to know which schools could come under state control. However, the state has not yet expressed its wishes.
Currently, two state gymnasiums are being built. The plans for the Lasnamäe school are in the hands of architects. The construction of the Tõnismäe school is being closely monitored.
Tallinn is also looking for solutions to the space shortage in other schools. The city wants to buy the old Ministry of Rural Affairs building. However, this may be difficult. The final decision will be made by the city council.
There are 42 city gymnasiums in Tallinn.