In recent interviews, Polish educators and lawmakers discussed the involvement of Prof. Wojciech Roszkowski in the national curriculum and the role of the Education Ministry in approving textbooks. The ministry clarified that it does not author or reject textbooks on its own; rather, decisions come after input from historians and other experts who are familiar with the historical periods covered by each work. According to the minister, three positive expert opinions are required before a textbook may be released for use.
The minister emphasized that, at the stage of permitting a textbook for classroom use, no formal or factual errors were identified. He also noted that any critic could find something to disagree with in any publication. In his view, the key concern was not about one specific book but about the broader process and the standards applied to evaluating educational materials. He mentioned a personal observation: he found a point in the discussed manual that did not align with his preferences, particularly the way changes in music or culture were described, and the text directly referenced certain bands.
He added that he is fond of classic acts such as the Beatles or the Rolling Stones, illustrating that popular culture references can be a matter of taste. He also stated that there are many Polish-language history textbooks on the market that seem to him unacceptable yet are still deemed permissible for use in schools.
According to him, the public discourse around textbooks has reached levels never before seen, with a strong focus on one particular title. He explained that the reason there is currently only one widely circulated HIT textbook from Roszkowski is that it was the first to submit for evaluation. When asked about a second HIT manual that had also been sent for approval, the minister replied that two positive expert reviews had been received, one with a conditional approval.
He indicated that the publishing house is engaged with an expert to address any concerns, and that linguistic reviews were expected to be completed shortly. He expressed confidence that the feedback would be constructive and that the process would proceed smoothly.
Regarding the legal framework, the minister underscored that the law makes it clear that teachers are not compelled to use any specific textbook. The ministry merely allows the use of textbooks and does not impose their adoption. The ultimate decision rests with the teacher, who may also rely on alternative materials if they consider them more appropriate for their class.
A lawsuit over an excerpt from a book
The minister was also asked about a case involving the father of a two-year-old child who intends to sue over an excerpt from a book discussing in vitro fertilization. He noted that in a country governed by the rule of law anyone may sue anyone, but questions arise about the grounds for such legal action. He also clarified that comments attributed to public figures can be challenged, and he would respond to any legitimate legal claims accordingly.
Pressed on whether he would pursue action against the leader of a political party, he said a formal letter was sent to the prosecutor’s office about the matter. When queried about his stance on IVF, he described himself as a proponent of loving all children and a member of the Catholic Church who believes IVF raises ethical questions. Nevertheless, he stressed that every child born deserves full rights, love, and human dignity, adding that he is not there to judge or absolve anyone but to recognize the inherent value of every life.
This discussion highlights the tension between educational content and ethical considerations within public policy as well as the ongoing debate about how best to present sensitive topics in school settings. The conversation continues to shape how textbooks are evaluated, approved, and used across the education system. [Citation: wPolityce]