A major push for education in Reykjavík
The City Executive Council approved two proposals to drive major improvements in reading comprehension, mathematics, and scientific literacy across Reykjavík's preschools and primary schools.
Results from the PISA assessment, presented Sept. 7, show that Icelandic students perform below the OECD average and trail their Nordic peers in all three areas measured by the study. Meanwhile, students in Reykjavík score above the national average. These results highlight the need for close dialogue with teachers and other staff about the future of schooling in Reykjavík.
Developing proposals to improve academic achievement
The City Executive Council approved a proposal directing the Department of Education and Youth to develop and present proposals to boost student performance in reading comprehension, mathematics, and scientific literacy.
During discussions about the PISA results, participants stressed that educational success depends on deliberate, long-term steps. They specifically highlighted early intervention, strong systematic follow-up on academic progress, support for Icelandic as a second language, and professional leadership within schools. Participants also emphasized the need to ensure consistent practices and equal access to support for all students, regardless of school or background.
These priorities align closely with Reykjavík City's Education Policy to 2030, which emphasizes children's prosperity, equal opportunity, inclusive schooling, and evidence-based decision-making supported by systematic follow-up. They therefore provide a crucial foundation for interpreting new findings and shaping future strategies. The Department of Education and Youth will present proposals to boost student performance in reading comprehension, mathematics, and scientific literacy.
These proposals must first go to the School and Recreation Council and the Preschool and Day Care Council by the end of November, before moving to the City Executive Council for discussion ahead of the City Council.
A major drive for education in Reykjavík City
The City Executive Council also approved a proposal to launch a conversation with teachers and other staff in preschools and primary schools about Reykjavík City's push to advance education.
By collaborating among all parties, the city will seek ways to fully strengthen preschools and primary schools, laying the groundwork for a major leap forward in education. By giving these areas the attention they deserve, officials aim to improve life for families throughout the city. Planned activities include a fall seminar in Tjarnarsalur at city hall, bringing together teachers and other preschool and primary school staff under the theme: How do we make schooling in Reykjavík the best it can be?
Following the seminar, officials will develop a concise summary and action plan for the School and Recreation Council and the Preschool and Day Care Council, which the City Council will also discuss.
Björg Magnúsdóttir, president of the City Council, will lead the effort alongside Bjarni Fritzsyn, chair of the School and Recreation Council, and Sigrún Asta Einarsdóttir, chair of the Preschool and Day Care Council, in collaboration with the Department of Education and Youth.
Björg says that strengthening Reykjavík's school system and making it a leader is the top priority of this term.
"We want to raise academic achievement for our children and make schools sought-after places to work. That ambitious goal requires genuine, productive dialogue among teachers and staff in the city's preschools and primary schools, parents, the Department of Education and Youth, and elected representatives. We look forward to kicking off this effort by welcoming a strong group into conversation at city hall," said Björg Magnúsdóttir, president of the City Council.