The Swedish government is set to replace the current student support system with a new model based on standardized tests. Education Minister Simona Mohamsson aims to create a calmer learning environment by providing targeted support to students in need, particularly those with neuropsychiatric diagnoses. The reform, expected to be part of the autumn budget, has sparked controversy among parents but is seen as a necessary step to improve educational outcomes.
Government Overhauls Student Support System: A New Era in Education
Government Overhauls Student Support System: A New Era in Education
Students requiring extra help and adjustments will no longer be taught with their class. The government is scrapping the current system and replacing it with a new support model based on standardized tests.
"Many parents who have demanded these adjustments will be furious, but their children will thank us," says Simona Mohamsson (L), Minister of Education.
The new Minister of Education and Integration, Simona Mohamsson, expects the change, which will be included in the autumn budget presented on September 22, to benefit both students and teachers by creating a calmer environment.
She describes the current situation in Swedish classrooms as a "wild west."
"Imagine you have trained to teach. But instead, you have a student who needs to sit with an iPad in a corner, another with a stress ball in hand, and a third who needs to run in and out every five minutes to move," says Mohamsson, adding:
"Today, we have teachers who cannot focus on teaching a lesson; instead, they need to conduct five different lessons. It's a disaster."
Expecting Criticism
From autumn 2028, support teaching in Swedish and math will be provided to students who need it, such as children with various neuropsychiatric diagnoses. They will be taught individually or in small groups with the help of a special education teacher, rather than in their class with various adjustments as is done today.
Those who need support will be identified through standardized tests conducted once a year.
Simona Mohamsson says she is "happy and proud" that the government is moving forward with the change.
"The Social Democrats discontinued special education training in the 1990s because they believed it was cruel to single out students who need support. I think it's cruel not to identify the students who need support."
The minister expects the change to receive criticism, especially from parents who have demanded significant adjustments for their children. But the children will be grateful, she believes.
"Now we make sure to identify the students who need help and ensure they learn to read. This is the foundation for them to succeed in the rest of their schooling."