The Hidden Cost of High Grades: A Polish Educator's Warning

The pressure of high grades: Polish educator warns of the mental health risks for students. A recent video by Joanna Białobrzeska, a Polish educator with 30 years of experience, has sparked a discussion about the detrimental effects of an overemphasis on academic achievement. Białobrzeska, founder of the DIDASKO publishing house and school, argues that the relentless pursuit of high grades creates an unhealthy competitive environment and can lead to serious mental health consequences. "The constant pressure to be the best can be incredibly damaging," Białobrzeska explains in the video. "Children end up prioritizing grades over their overall well-being, leading to stress, anxiety, and even depression." She further points out that children struggling under this pressure may resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms. The video has garnered significant attention, highlighting a growing concern about student mental health in Poland and beyond. Białobrzeska's message serves as a reminder to prioritize the holistic development of children and to foster a supportive learning environment that prioritizes well-being over grades alone.