School participatory budget

The participatory school budget is an educational and organizational tool that enables students to actively participate in decision-making regarding the allocation of a portion of the school’s budget. Its primary aim is to involve children in the process of improving the school environment, while fostering independence, responsibility, and the ability to plan and manage resources. This approach combines practical experience with learning, giving students the opportunity to see the direct impact of their decisions on the environment where they spend most of their day. The participatory budget promotes civic engagement and democratic principles from an early age.

Key Activities and Participant Experience
Students propose projects and ideas they believe would enhance the school environment—these may include classroom equipment, the creation of recreational areas, organizing excursions, or supporting extracurricular activities. The proposals are then presented to other students, who vote for the ideas they consider the best. The selected project is subsequently implemented with the active involvement of both students and teachers. This process allows children to develop skills in collaboration, planning, argumentation, and accountability. Throughout the entire process, participants observe the consequences of their decisions and have opportunities to reflect on what works and what could be improved.

Program Features and Principles
The participatory budget fosters democratic principles and active citizenship. Students learn that their opinions and proposals carry weight and that they can influence the environment in which they learn. The program enhances communication, collaboration, and critical thinking, teaching children to plan and make decisions with real-world consequences in mind. Educators can continuously provide methodological support and monitor how students manage each stage of the process. The program is flexible and can be adapted to the specific needs of a class or school.

Methodology and Structure
The participatory budgeting process is typically divided into several stages. First, students are introduced to the principles and rules governing voting and project selection. They then develop their own ideas to positively impact the school environment. These proposals are reviewed and published for voting. The winning project is chosen and implemented, with students actively collaborating with teachers and other school staff. The entire process is often supplemented with simple methodological guidance and digital tools that facilitate organization and ensure transparent evaluation of the voting process.

Expected Outcomes and Value
Participants learn responsibility for their decisions, develop communication and presentation skills, and gain experience in planning and organization. The project contributes to improving the school environment, strengthens relationships between students and teachers, and promotes democratic principles in practice. Students learn to evaluate options, discuss alternative solutions, and actively contribute to changes that have a tangible impact on their school.