The spending review included in the economic maneuver also affects the school system, with a 25% reduction in the turnover of teachers. Starting from the 2025/2026 school year, the overall organic allocation of teachers is reduced by 5,660 positions in the autonomy budget; in addition, there will be a revision of the criteria and parameters for defining the organic allocations of administrative, technical, and auxiliary staff in schools (Ata), with a reduction of 2,174 positions starting from the 2025/2026 school year. The reductions in teaching and Ata staff may be reshuffled within the school’s three-year staff complement, while maintaining financial stability.
Statistics show a decrease in the number of students since 2015-2016, with a decrease of 20,000 students initially, followed by a further drop of 75,000 students in 2018-2019. The 2021-2022 school year marked a record reduction of 100,000 students, surpassing the previous school year with a decrease of 130,000 students. This year, there are 7,073,587 students; some calculations predict a reduction of 1.4 million in the school population by 2032. Unions and opposition parties are highly critical of the proposed cuts in the budget. The Ministry of Education and Merit specified in a statement that the budget law, while aiming for general spending containment, allocated specific resources for schools, including a 6% increase in the 2022/2024 collective contract compared to the previous 5.78%. For the first time in public sector bargaining history, funds have been allocated for the next collective bargaining round, amounting to 1,755 million euros for 2025, 3,550 million euros for 2026, and 5,550 million euros annually from 2027 onwards.
The ministerial note also emphasizes that the alleged reduction of 5,660 teachers and 2,174 ATA staff positions is a temporary measure to reduce turnover, which does not affect the overall staff allocation, particularly considering the new hirings for support roles. During the approval process of the measure, there will be an opportunity to clarify the temporary nature of the decision. The Ministry of Education and Merit assures that despite the planned reduction in staff, resources have been allocated to recognize salary increases for school personnel, with an average increase of 5.4% above the projected inflation rate. The disbursement of initial advances will begin in 2025, while negotiations on the contract are ongoing.
Critics have pointed out that the reduction in school staff is a cause for concern, especially given the declining student population and the increased demand for support staff in schools. The opposition and trade unions are calling for a review of the cost-cutting measures to ensure that the quality of education is not compromised. The Ministry of Education and Merit is committed to engaging in further discussions with stakeholders to address the concerns raised and find solutions that balance the budget constraints with the needs of the education system. It is essential to prioritize the well-being of students and educators while navigating the challenges posed by the changing demographic trends and financial pressures. By maintaining a dialogue and collaboration between all parties involved, it is possible to find a sustainable and equitable way forward for the school system.
