New term begins in schools: Mandatory lab coats for teachers introduced

A circular titled "Work and Procedures Regarding the 2026-2027 Academic Year," prepared under the signature of Minister of National Education Yusuf Tekin, has been sent to national education directorates in all 81 provinces. The circular includes various headings regarding the practices to be implemented in schools during the new academic term.

TEACHERS WILL WEAR LAB COATS

The circular requests that educational institution administrators, teachers, and other educational staff act in accordance with the dignity of the teaching profession, the responsibility of representation, and the quality of being a role model for students while performing their duties.

It was stated that educators should observe the solemnity of the profession, the seriousness of public service, and social sensitivities in their attire, and it was stipulated that teachers should wear lab coats.

It was conveyed that information regarding the implementation will be provided at the teachers' board meetings to be held at the beginning of the academic year. It was reported that the regulation will be monitored by provincial and district national education directorates and that practices contrary to the legislation will not be permitted.

SECURITY MEASURES IN SCHOOLS WILL BE INCREASED

Measures regarding school security for the new term were also included in the circular.

Accordingly, entries and exits in schools will be carried out in a controlled manner. Pedestrian and vehicle traffic will be separated. Blind spots will be illuminated for the safety of students and school staff.

Furthermore, it was requested that maintenance and repair work that would allow for rapid and safe evacuation in emergencies be completed.

MOBILE PHONE POLICY IN CLASSROOMS WILL CONTINUE

Guidance activities will be prioritized to ensure that students use digital technologies correctly and consciously.

It was stated that the current policy of not allowing mobile phones in classrooms will continue in the new academic year.

In homework and information processes, it was requested that digital platforms and applications determined by the Ministry be used. It was stated that the use of tools outside of these platforms should be avoided and that students and parents should be guided in this regard.

LIMITATIONS ON MATERIALS OUTSIDE MINISTRY RESOURCES

In schools and educational institutions, the use of materials other than those distributed free of charge by the Ministry will not be permitted.

It was emphasized that parents should not be directed toward specific brands or high-priced imported stationery sets when meeting students' stationery needs.

In this context, the aim is to provide opportunities for choosing domestically produced products and to ensure that parents are not faced with an additional economic burden.

Exam-like practices that are not compatible with the Ministry's measurement and evaluation policies and that could negatively affect students' academic, social, and emotional development will not be allowed in schools.

BOARD APPROVAL FOR CEREMONIES AND GRADUATION EVENTS

New rules will also be applied in the new term regarding materials to be used in ceremonies, celebrations, commemoration days, graduations, and similar events to be organized in schools.

Music, videos, brochures, banners, and other materials will be able to be used only after being approved by the Work Review and Selection Board established within the scope of the legislation.

Pedagogical and ethical principles will also need to be observed in schools' social media posts.

It was requested that graduation events be organized in a manner consistent with students' identity and social values, and that they not impose an additional financial burden on parents. Practices contrary to the rules specified in the Ministry's previously published circular on "Graduation Day Events" will not be permitted.