Italian schools face staffing and climate crises

As the new school year begins in Italy, labor unions are raising alarms regarding systemic issues within the national education system. A primary concern is the high level of precariousness, with unions reporting over 200,000 temporary replacements (supplenze) for both teachers and administrative staff (ATA). This reliance on temporary contracts is described by the Flc Cgil as a “model of management” rather than an emergency. Specifically, more than half of the required support teachers for students with disabilities remain uncovered by permanent staff, often filled by non-specialized personnel.

In addition to staffing shortages, unions such as Anief and Gilda are highlighting inadequate working conditions. Many school buildings lack sufficient air conditioning, posing health risks like heatstroke to millions of students and staff, particularly older employees. Other concerns include excessive bureaucracy, low salaries compared to other public sectors, and the need for more stable hiring processes to ensure educational continuity and student safety.