Ensuring No Child is Left Behind: Integrating Ukrainian Adolescents into Poland’s Public Schools
A pivotal study sparks critical policy reforms, transforming the educational landscape for conflict-affected youth.
Background
As conflict in Ukraine continued and pandemic measures persisted, a growing number of Ukrainian adolescents found themselves in Poland, often studying exclusively online. Prolonged virtual learning heightened the risk of creating a “lost generation”—children isolated from peer interaction, social development, and the critical support systems typically provided by in-person schooling. Recognizing the urgent need to address these challenges, a comprehensive, representative study was undertaken to understand the barriers and opportunities facing these young learners.
The Challenge
Despite increasing recognition that in-person education is vital for overall child development, many Ukrainian adolescents in Poland remained outside the formal classroom. Factors ranged from language barriers and administrative hurdles to uncertainty around legal requirements for foreign students. Without structured interventions, these adolescents risked falling behind academically, socially, and emotionally—a precarious situation exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in their homeland.
Our Approach
This study shed light on the critical support systems—or lack thereof—that determine whether children could successfully transition into Poland’s public school system:
- Holistic Data Collection: Employed both quantitative and qualitative methods to capture the real-time experiences of Ukrainian families, educators, and local officials.
- Barrier and Facilitator Analysis: Assessed the main obstacles (e.g., language proficiency, bureaucratic complexities) and identified potential enablers (e.g., community-based programs, targeted language support).
- Multi-Stakeholder Engagement: Convened a high-level conference bringing together policymakers, international organizations, UN representatives, donors, and the Polish Ministry of Education.
- Action-Oriented Recommendations: Shared evidence-based insights to guide immediate policy decisions, focusing on seamless enrollment procedures, mandatory attendance policies, and holistic support for adolescent well-being.
Results and Impact
The study’s findings became a catalyst for policy change:
- Critical Policy Shift: Following the multi-stakeholder meeting and panel discussions, the Polish government extended its mandatory education requirement to include Ukrainian children—a landmark decision that moved them from online-only education to guaranteed in-person instruction.
- Enhanced Child Rights: This policy triumph secured the rights of vulnerable adolescents, ensuring they benefit from classroom learning, social interaction, and the protective environment of a formal school setting.
- Holistic Development: By re-integrating students into physical classrooms, the initiative supports their emotional, social, and cognitive growth—building stronger foundations for future success and well-being.
Looking Ahead
Inclusion is a cornerstone of quality education. Poland’s updated policy marks a significant step toward leveling the playing field for Ukrainian refugees, proving that comprehensive research and effective collaboration can reshape how societies support displaced children. Building on this foundation, Triangle is now turning its attention to improving the quality of education for Ukrainian children not only in Poland, but also in Romania and Moldova. By working closely with local partners and stakeholders in these countries, Triangle aims to ensure every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive—regardless of their background or circumstances.