In the School Safety Plan, the role of psychologists in preventing issues like bullying is a key focus for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Jona Begeja, a psychologist at the 9-year school “7 Marsi” in the capital, told ATA that each year around 50–60 cases are reported to the school’s psycho-social service, requiring ongoing intervention for a variety of problems and difficulties.

According to the psychologist, the main priorities for the 2025–2026 school year are implementing the new guidelines related to the school regulations and the functioning of the ethics committee, strengthening preventive work against bullying and dropout, raising awareness among parents and teachers about the importance of emotional support for children, and increasing the involvement of new roles such as the psycho-social worker and the security officer within the SMIP platform.

“The new guideline has brought greater responsibility for documenting, reporting, and preventing cases. The focus is not only on addressing problems after they occur but on early intervention. Additionally, the role of the ethics committee and the school regulations has been strengthened, becoming more detailed and enforceable,” Begeja explained.

Banning cell phones in classrooms or school areas is another measure that, according to psychologist Begeja, “has been in place in previous years using special locked boxes where students deposit their phones at the beginning of the day and collect them at dismissal.”

She noted that informing parents through homeroom teachers has helped reduce distractions and conflicts, and despite initial student reactions, clear communication and consistent enforcement have made the rule broadly accepted.

The psychologist highlighted a targeted approach for students with special needs through tailored plans and close support, while also addressing at-risk students and those facing family issues like domestic violence or addiction, emphasizing collaboration with parents and other institutions.

The SMIP platform is essential for coordinating support among school staff, parents, and institutions, enhancing case management and providing a clear overview of students’ psycho-social needs.
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