MoE Proposes Amendments to the Pre-school and School Education Act (PSEA)

Until June 23, all interested parties can submit comments on the Ministry of Education and Science’s (MoE) proposals for changes and additions to the Pre-school and School Education Act. This follows the ministry’s publication of its draft proposal for public discussion. Afterward, the proposed amendments to the PSEA will be voted on by the Council of Ministers and submitted to the National Assembly, which will either approve, reject, or amend them.

What is the MoE proposing?

The proposals consist of dozens of paragraphs and clauses, compiled in a 46-page document. They cover around 20 different topics: early childhood development, full coverage and institutional engagement, language support, desegregation in kindergartens and schools, math high schools, career counseling, introduction of new teacher groups, etc.

The changes also prepare for the introduction of a mandatory subject called “Virtues and Religion”, which has sparked active discussion in recent weeks.

Although the proposed changes are not fundamental (e.g., they do not address the topic of educational structure or the return of 8th grade to primary education), they could have a serious impact on school and preschool education.

For instance, a special “language class” is proposed for students who do not speak Bulgarian. Additional language support will be provided for these children, going beyond what is currently covered by the inclusive education regulations.

Students will also be allowed to repeat first grade once—an initiative supported by many teachers, though its actual impact remains uncertain.

Math high schools will retain the option for early admission starting from 5th grade. Students accepted at this level will not need to reapply in 7th grade—they will remain in the high school. This change will also increase the number of classes in these schools, starting from both 5th grade and the beginning of secondary education.

Desegregation policies will be reinforced, with municipalities required to implement them. A National Center for Career Guidance will be established, among other changes.

Comments on the proposals can be submitted until June 23 to the following emails: n.tzekova@mon.bg, p.ivanova@mon.bg or e.kostadinova@mon.bg