The Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education has announced its policy plans for next year, aiming to make 2011 the first year for educational reform.

The office will seek to narrow the academic gap among students and implement the provision of eco-friendly free school meals for elementary school students.

It will also enhance educational welfare policies, including the free supply of learning aids for elementary and middle school students.

The office will also designate 40 innovative schools which will have increased autonomy over their curriculum.

In addition, the office will set up an ordinance on students' rights in order to seek a balance between students' liberties and teachers' jurisdictions. It will also investigate cases claiming the violation of teachers' authority.