Dominican Republic education system faces classroom shortages and insecurity

The Dominican Republic's education system faces critical challenges regarding infrastructure, capacity, and safety. The Dominican Teachers Association (ADP) has warned that approximately 153,000 three-year-old children could be left without classroom space for the 2026-2027 school year, necessitating roughly 7,000 additional classrooms. Furthermore, over 321,000 students across other levels may face similar shortages, leading to severe overcrowding in some areas like Higüey, where classrooms designed for 20 students are hosting up to 35.

Beyond physical space, the ADP highlighted growing social issues within schools, including rising insecurity, the influence of gangs among adolescents, and early substance use such as alcohol and cigarettes. The association also noted a shortage of specialized personnel, reporting that there are only about 3,000 school police officers for approximately 9,000 educational centers. Additionally, teacher shortages persist in core subjects like mathematics, science, and languages, with many primary schools reporting vacancies.

In a separate development, a resident of San Antonio de Guerra has called for a protest on August 10 in District 1007, alleging that a lack of school spots for Dominican children is being caused by the occupation of classrooms by migrants. The resident criticized local authorities and the police regarding the management of school enrollment and national security.