El Salvador’s public schools are enforcing strict new discipline rules, including military-style haircuts, tidy uniforms, and formal greetings to honor teachers. This initiative, directed by Education Minister Cara Trigueros, aims to restore order in classrooms amidst concerns about the militarization of education. Principals must greet students upon arrival, and strict appearance standards are now mandatory.
Existing rules on student appearance were not previously enforced, leading to long lines at barber shops as students comply. The mandate also introduces “Civic Mondays,” which include flag ceremonies and historical presentations, with schools receiving $300 to support these activities.
While the government, led by President Nayib Bukele, supports these changes as necessary for discipline and civic values, teacher unions criticize them, fearing an increase in authoritarianism and potential abuses of power. Some unions, however, support the call for order, highlighting previous challenges faced by teachers.
The context of these reforms is Bukele’s administration, which has seen significant reductions in gang violence but has also faced accusations of increasingly authoritarian governance.
Source link
