Schools as Ethical Decision-Makers—Educational Ethics at the Meso-Level

This paper examines the ethical dimensions of schools as decision-makers at the meso- level of the formal education system. It emphasizes that schools are not merely sites of knowledge transmission but also ethical communities that can have a significant impact on future generations. The paper highlights the deeply normative nature of educational practices, illustrating that decisions made at the school level are not simply administrative but are inherently value-laden. Drawing on both philosophical ethics and educational science, it provides a categorization of the complex field of educational ethics and advocates for an interdisciplinary approach to address the multifaced ethical challenges schools face. With increasing autonomy, schools are presented with both opportunities and ethical responsibilities, requiring careful reflection on guiding values. As societal values evolve, schools must continuously engage in ethical reflection and adapt to emerging challenges, fostering a culture that prepares students to thrive in a complex world.