Bārbele school faces uncertain future without state salary funding

Bārbele School has received no state funding for teachers’ salaries this school year because it does not meet minimum pupil numbers, LSM reports. The private school has 17 pupils, while new government rules require at least 45 across its three grade groups.

The rules require at least 15 pupils in each group: grades one to three, four to six, and seven to nine. The school had expected a transition period, but has since learned that none will be provided.

The school is in active talks with the ministry, seeking time to attract more pupils. Children from several municipalities attend the school, whose new management began work this summer. It is not yet clear whether the school can continue operating.

Ivan Janis Mihailovs, a representative of the State Education Quality Service, said the private school could seek support or raise tuition fees. He said the priority was ensuring that children did not lose access to education.

If the school announces that it is closing, parents should collect documents recording what their children have studied and their assessment results, Mihailovs said. They should then look for other education options, starting with their municipality.