Koolipidaja

Koolipidaja is a term used in Estonia to denote the entity that bears responsibility for organizing and financing a school. In practice, a koolipidaja can be a person or a legal entity that owns or operates an educational institution and is legally responsible for its overall functioning. The concept covers both public and private arrangements, serving as the link between policy and daily learning.

In the public sector, the koolipidaja is typically the local government or municipal authority that hosts a school. This authority funds the school’s activities, appoints or approves the school head, and supervises compliance with national curricular standards and safety requirements. In private settings, the koolipidaja is the foundation, association, or private company that owns or operates the school and assumes similar responsibilities for finances, governance, and quality assurance.

Responsibilities of a koolipidaja include budgeting and resource allocation, ensuring adequate staffing, appointing or approving the school principal, maintaining facilities, and ensuring the school’s activities meet national education laws and quality standards. The koolipidaja may delegate day-to-day management to a school board, director, or executive body while retaining overall accountability.

The role is distinct from teachers, administrators, or students; it is an overarching governance and funding function. Changes to a school’s status—such as reorganization, merger, or closure—are typically initiated by the koolipidaja in accordance with legal procedures.

The term is primarily used in Estonia and is part of the country’s framework for organizing and financing basic and upper secondary education.