Zacatecas parents occupy school over director vacancy

Parents at the 20 de Noviembre elementary school in Zacatecas have occupied the school facilities to demand the appointment of a new director. The vacancy follows the retirement of the previous principal, Maura Anguiano, on August 1.

Families report that although they requested a replacement in late August, the Secretariat of Education of Zacatecas (SEZ) initially rejected the request, claiming the school did not meet the minimum enrollment requirement of 160 students. However, parents assert the school currently has 161 students across nine groups.

In addition to the leadership vacancy, parents expressed concern over reports that certain teachers would be withdrawn and student groups merged. The protesters have vowed to maintain the school closure until the SEZ fulfills its commitment to provide a permanent director and the necessary staff to ensure the students' right to education.