Policy brief: Responding to the influx of Ukrainian refugee students in Lesser Poland Voivodeship’s education system

Abstract

This brief explores how Poland’s education system has responded to the influx of Ukrainian refugee students since the start of the Ukraine-Russia War. In Poland, only 40% of Ukrainian refugee students are enrolled in schools, and the content taught in Polish classrooms can lack inclusivity. To combat this, Poland is offering segregated and immersive schooling options. Both approaches strive to enhance student learning and wellbeing. This brief recommends maintaining the option of both schooling approaches and supports Ukrainian refugee teachers being redeployed as multicultural assistants who can help engage parents and students in Polish schools and overcome the language barrier.