A new round of controversy has erupted in the Spanish capital over the allocation of state subsidies for preschool education. This year, Madrid authorities provided financial support for private kindergartens not only to low-income but also to affluent families. The list of recipients includes parents whose annual income exceeds 100,000 euros. This move has sparked a strong public reaction and ignited heated political debate.
According to official data, 128 families received subsidies even though they did not score any points under the selection criteria. Points are usually awarded for low income, having multiple children, or facing difficult life circumstances. However, this time, due to amended rules, aid was given to households that, by any standard, belong to the wealthy sector. Families with one child could have a total income approaching 90,000 euros, while those with two children could exceed 100,000. If a family had three children, they would have received extra points as large families, but this case involves different categories.
Changes to the rules
It all began in 2022, when regional authorities decided to ease income requirements for subsidies for private nurseries, as well as private school and college education. Previously, the income cap for assistance was much lower: €75,000 for nurseries, €60,000 for vocational education, and just €30,000 for upper secondary school. Now, with the new threshold set at €35,913 per family member, the maximum eligible income for a couple with one child can reach €107,739.
Officials say the goal is to expand access to private education for more families. However, critics argue that such policies only deepen social inequality and divert public funds away from those who truly need them. The core controversy is clear: why should the state subsidize the education of children from families who can already afford private services?
Budget and priorities
This academic year, €67.3 million was allocated for subsidies to private nurseries. All funds were fully spent. For the first time in years, the selection criteria no longer included a point for families facing difficult social circumstances. Previously, such situations awarded extra points, but this mechanism is no longer in place. Officials claim this criterion was never decisive, but its removal has puzzled many parents and experts.
As a result, priority was given to families with an income below €35,913 per person, as well as those who did not score any points but whose income does not exceed €29,988 per family member. However, even with these criteria, the list still includes families who, by most Spaniards’ standards, are considered quite well-off.
Public response
The Madrid authorities’ decision to support not only low-income but also affluent families sparked a wave of criticism from the opposition and public organizations. Many believe that this policy is unfair and contradicts the principles of social assistance. Meanwhile, government officials insist that all subsidy recipients strictly meet the established criteria and that the selection process was transparent and objective.
Particularly frustrating was the fact that families learned the results only in December, after already paying for four months of schooling out of pocket. They have now been promised reimbursement retroactively, but the process of applying and waiting has been a real ordeal for many.
Political undertones
Political intrigue was also at play. The decision to broaden access to subsidies has been linked to pressure from Vox, a party that advocates for traditional family values and the freedom to choose educational institutions. Meanwhile, the opposition accuses the government of catering to the wealthy and neglecting those who are truly in need.
The question of whether public funds should be used to support wealthy families remains unresolved. For some, it’s a step toward equal opportunity; for others, it’s an example of inefficient budgeting. One thing is clear: Madrid’s system for distributing childcare subsidies has become one of the most hotly debated topics in Spanish society. And the controversy around it shows no sign of fading.
