Around thirty early childhood education professionals have begun a lock-in at the Platero school in Rivas-Vaciamadrid. They have been on indefinite strike for a month demanding lower ratios, two educators per classroom and salaries above the minimum interprofessional wage.
The educators began the lock-in on Friday afternoon after the school emptied of children. Lucía Martínez of the Plataforma Laboral Escuelas Infantiles explained that current ratios are unworkable and that an educational pair per classroom is needed to improve attention.
The workers say many receive only the minimum wage despite their training and responsibility. Miriam, one of the participants, noted the impact of the mostly female sector on working conditions and stressed that education from 0 to 3 is fundamental for child development.
Rivas mayor Aída Castillejo visited the center and showed support. However, the educators regret the lack of response from the Madrid regional government. The lock-in is planned to continue through the weekend.
