Volos parents protest school mergers and overcrowding

Parents and students at the 14th Primary School in Volos are escalating protests against decisions to merge classrooms and relocate students. Following a six-day student strike, pupils returned to classes on Monday, September 21, accompanied by a symbolic blockade of Gianni Dimou Street to demonstrate continued opposition.

The Parents and Guardians Association argues that the merger decisions by the Magnesia Primary Education Directorate and the Ministry of Education ignore pedagogical needs. Protesters claim the new arrangements will result in overcrowded classrooms of up to 25 students in cramped spaces, which they argue is unsuitable for learning, particularly for children with learning difficulties.

In response to these measures, the association has filed a memorandum with the prosecutor's office regarding safety concerns and the suitability of the school facilities. The movement has gained support from nine other schools in Volos facing similar issues regarding transportation and infrastructure.