Principals' Concerns Over New Subject: The Minister of National Education Points to "Certain Simplifications"

On August 22, the Ministry of National Education once again announced that a new, optional subject – health education – will be introduced in schools starting September 1, 2025. The ministry highlighted the benefits the subject can bring to children. It also emphasized that "the full core curriculum can be found on the Ministry of National Education website." Shortly afterward, the Press Office of the Polish Episcopal Conference reiterated its May letter regarding health education.

The deputy head of the Ministry of National Education on the Episcopal Conference's letter on health education. "A typical example of fake news."

Katarzyna Lubnauer was asked about the matter on Tok FM. The Deputy Minister of National Education assessed the arguments presented by the Presidium of the Polish Episcopal Conference as "a typical example of fake news." Lubnauer then quoted excerpts from the core curriculum. The Deputy Minister of National Education noted that there is "space for teachers to speak with great value about what is happening in our families, and the family is usually the most basic, safest place."

Lubnauer continued that "health education, including in matters of family functioning, should absolutely benefit the child." The Deputy Minister of National Education stated that the core curriculum proves that "the exact opposite of what is described in this letter" from the Episcopate. Lubnauer also addressed the problems highlighted by principals. Because the deadline for withdrawing from classes is September 25th, they are having difficulty planning them.

Health Education: Katarzyna Lubnaeur Responds to School Principals

"Honestly, I'm a bit surprised by this complaint. As I understand it, these aren't first-year principals. Health education, in terms of parents being able to withdraw their children from the subject, works the same way as Family Life Education did," commented the deputy head of the Ministry of National Education. She added that her surprise was even greater considering that "a certain convenience" is that there will now be one hour of religion or ethics per week instead of two.

Lubnauer also emphasized that students could withdraw from the Family Life Education program at any time during the school year. The Deputy Minister of National Education also explained that Family Life Education focused on only two topics: sexuality and family relationships. Lubnauer noted that the new subject "is much broader."

Read also: New Ministry of National Education (MEN) Idea, Principals Report Problem. "Possibilities Are Limited." Read also: Uproar Over New Subject. Teachers Must Meet These Ministry of National Education Guidelines