Moonsoo Kim Proposes Legal Basis for Establishing School Administrative Offices

Representative Proposal of the "Elementary and Secondary Education Act Amendment"

Moonsoo Kim, member of the Democratic Party of Korea.

Moonsoo Kim, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea representing Suncheon, Gwangyang, Gokseong, and Gurye-gap in South Jeolla Province, announced on July 1 that he has introduced a bill to amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. The core of the amendment is to establish a legal basis for the installation and operation of 'administrative offices' in primary and secondary schools.

The current law requires primary and secondary schools to have principals, vice principals, teachers, and administrative staff, and stipulates that these staff members are responsible for school administrative affairs and other duties. However, there is no legal basis for the formation of school administrative organizations, such as administrative offices, where administrative staff are actually assigned and perform their duties.

In contrast, universities systematically establish and operate organizations such as secretariats, administrative headquarters, or administrative offices based on legal grounds under the Higher Education Act, thereby enhancing the professionalism and efficiency of administrative affairs.

Kim explained the purpose of the legislation by stating, "Although the school administrative office is an important organization that supports school education, the lack of a legal basis for its establishment often leads to instability in the management of administrative personnel and ambiguity in responsibility. Now, administrative organizations in elementary, middle, and high schools should also be operated in a stable and professional manner within a legal framework."

The proposed amendment adds Article 30-11 to the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, allowing schools to establish organizations necessary for their operation, and stipulates that matters regarding the installation and operation of such organizations will be determined by Presidential Decree.

Kim stated, "By clarifying the legal status of administrative offices, we expect to improve the efficiency of school operations and enhance the professionalism and accountability of administrative staff."