New Left MPs question Education Minister over gaps in special education

Members of Parliament from the New Left party have submitted a parliamentary question to the Minister of Education, highlighting severe staffing shortages in Special Education and Support Services.

According to data from the Greek Primary Teachers’ Federation (DOE), there are 4,661 unfilled positions in Parallel Support and 666 vacancies in Special Education. The shortages are particularly acute in Piraeus (862), East Attica (817), Athens A’ district (807), Heraklion (622), Achaia (460), and the Cyclades (318).

One striking case is the 4th Primary School of Chalandri, where out of 20 children entitled to Parallel Support, only five teachers have been assigned.

“This situation undermines the smooth operation of schools and exacerbates social inequalities,” the MPs stressed.

Through their parliamentary question, the New Left lawmakers are asking the Minister to clarify:

• The exact number of vacancies in Special Education by region and municipality.
• The Ministry’s plan to fully cover these gaps within the current school year.
• How many substitute and permanent teachers have already been appointed, how many positions remain vacant, and what the timeline is for future recruitment phases.
• What funds have been allocated for staffing, infrastructure, and equipment in Special Education.