As of the 2024 academic year, there will be fewer separate classes delivered in Ukrainian only in Estonian schools, as more Ukrainian students transition to learning fully in Estonian. The shift reflects changing attitudes among both refugees and school administrators, with Ukrainian families increasingly committed to integrating into Estonian society and enrolling their children in Estonian-language education.
In May 2024 approximately 9 000 Ukrainian children were enrolled in Estonian schools, with a declining number of students simultaneously attending Ukrainian online schools. Schools that previously offered separate classes for Ukrainian students are now making efforts to integrate them into Estonian or mixed-language classes (Russian-Estonian) as the students become more linguistically proficient. The demand for Estonian language courses for Ukrainian children remains high, with financial support available for schools to provide these additional classes.
The Räägu and Vabaduse schools, specifically focused on teaching Ukrainian children, are also transitioning to more Estonian-language instruction. Räägu School will gradually reduce its operations as Ukrainian students are directed to local schools. Vabaduse School, which offers education partly in Ukrainian, will introduce more Estonian-language elective subjects. The long-term future of these schools is uncertain, as they are expected to eventually merge into fully Estonian-language institutions, aligning with Estonia’s broader shift towards a unified Estonian education system.