Education Minister Responds to Teacher Strike: 'Do We Keep Reacting?'

The Minister of Education, Athena Michaelidou, stated her determination to proceed with the implementation of the new teacher evaluation plan, emphasizing that it is the only way to modernize the school system. Speaking on the show "ENIMEROSI TORA," she responded to criticisms from teacher organizations regarding the "lack of information," arguing that the draft criteria have been known since May.

Ms. Michaelidou attributed the reactions to "resistance to change," noting that the existing system has remained stagnant for 50 years. She emphasized that the new plan focuses on formative assessment and enables teachers to advance salary-wise while remaining in the classroom.

Referring to the dialogue with the POED, OELMEK, and OLTEK organizations, the minister stated that the consultation lasted 1.5 years and satisfied the vast majority of requests. She expressed concern about the question "when do we stop protesting?", calling on teachers to see the reform as a means of upgrading their prestige.