Massive reaction from municipalities of Piraeus to the mergers of school departments

The mass mergers of school classes, implemented by the Ministry of Education and the Attica Regional Directorate of Education, have sparked a wave of protests from the educational community and local organizations in the Piraeus Region. Specifically, teachers from the Piraeus Teachers’ Union (ELME), parents, and students are engaged in an ongoing struggle against the decision to eliminate approximately 100 classes in the region and 1,000 nationwide.

Since August 2024, the educational community has been resisting this policy, considering it dangerous and detrimental to the quality of education. They describe the mergers as a «pandemic» that degrades school life and increases the academic workload, particularly in overcrowded classes. This reaction has already yielded some initial positive results, as pressure on the government continues to mount.

Resolutions of Municipalities in the Piraeus Region

Many municipalities in the Piraeus Region have passed resolutions condemning the merger policy and demanding the immediate withdrawal of the relevant decisions. Among the municipalities that have already taken action are the following:

1. Municipality of Piraeus: The Piraeus City Council passed a unanimous resolution opposing the mergers, calling for the withdrawal of the decisions regarding the elimination of dozens of departments.
2. Municipality of Nikaia-Renti: The Council joined the broader struggle by also issuing a resolution in support of the students and teachers​.
3. Municipality of Keratsini-Drapetsona: By a decision of the City Council, the school mergers were condemned, and support was expressed for the educational community.
4. Municipality of Perama: The Perama City Council unanimously opposed the mergers, supporting the request that all departments remain active.
5. Municipality of Salamina: Despite the departure of some city council members before the vote, those present voted unanimously against the mergers, supporting the joint request.

An Ongoing Struggle

The educational community and the municipalities of the Piraeus Region are continuing their fight until the decisions to abolish the departments are fully revoked. The massive outcry highlights the importance of maintaining a high-quality educational environment and ensuring equality in schools. The protests, supported by local municipalities, are putting pressure on the government and demanding immediate corrective action.