Neuquén proposes plan to extend primary school hours

A new legislative proposal in Neuquén, Argentina, seeks to transform the provincial primary education system through the “Más Escuela” (More School) Plan. Introduced by Deputy Francisco Lepore, the bill proposes a progressive implementation of full-day schooling to strengthen teaching and learning processes.

The plan is structured in stages, beginning with a comprehensive diagnostic assessment of school infrastructure, food services, human resources, enrollment, and educational trajectories. Following this assessment, additional hours will be added to schools that meet the necessary requirements. The proposal defines three distinct modalities: a simple day of four hours, an extended day of five to seven hours, and a full day of eight hours.

The Ministry of Education and the Provincial Council of Education (CPE) would serve as the implementing authorities. Additionally, the bill establishes a Provincial Evaluation Council to monitor the plan's impact on student learning. This council would include representatives from the Ministry of Education, the CPE, provincial deputies, teachers' unions (ATEN and ATE), and the National University of Comahue.