Prioritizing Classroom Instruction

The Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation (MECI) has issued new guidelines emphasizing that classroom instruction should receive absolute priority over other school activities for the upcoming academic year. This directive was outlined in the 2024/2025 School Year Organizational Support Guide distributed to schools.

Key Directives

In the 14-page document, the MECI provides several measures to address the shortage of teachers. Notably, schools may need to suspend extracurricular activities and projects to ensure that teachers are available to cover classes lacking instructors.

• Curricular Instruction Priority: The MECI stresses that curricular teaching must take precedence in all situations.
• Suspension of Activities: In the event of classes without teachers, schools can halt enrichment activities to allow teachers to focus on core instruction.
• Teacher Assignments: The Ministry advises against assigning teachers to roles that would reduce their hours with students, especially in subjects with significant teacher shortages.
• Team Organization: Schools are encouraged to create pedagogical teams responsible for entire groups of classes, facilitating better coordination and flexibility among staff.

Additionally, the guidelines mention the “Classes Without Interruptions for a Successful Future” plan, which includes measures like hiring PhD candidates and improving teachers' salaries. In September, the Ministry will assess schools facing severe teacher shortages to implement further support measures, including hiring retired teachers and extending substitution periods from three months to one year if medically necessary.

Conclusion

These steps reflect the Ministry's commitment to ensuring that students receive a consistent and quality education despite ongoing challenges in staffing.