The issue of education quality concerns every family in Madrid. In recent years, the Spanish capital has become wealthier, but according to many parents, the standard of public schools has not improved. Despite the growing number of students and new challenges, education funding is not keeping up with demand. Official data confirms this: real-term spending on schools is lower than it was ten years ago.
Lengthy debates over budgets and criticism of regional government decisions have failed to bring about significant change. Now, the socialists propose a new approach: not just discussing numbers, but clearly identifying what needs to change to make schools better for everyone. Their initiative aims to strengthen the public education system, making it more efficient and accessible for every family.
A school near home
One of the key ideas is that every family should have the option of a good public school within walking distance. This isn’t about temporary buildings or schools left unfinished by years-long renovations. What matters is that schools are modern, safe, and well-equipped. This is not about political views, but about everyday life: so families don’t have to spend hours commuting or have their choice of school depend on their income. Investment in infrastructure is not a luxury—it’s a way to guarantee equal opportunities for all, including the middle class, who already pay taxes and expect quality services.
The authorities propose investing in major renovations, new construction, and improving energy efficiency. They believe this approach will not only enhance learning conditions, but also ease the burden on parents, who won’t have to look for alternatives at their own expense.
Time for students
A second key objective is to give teachers the opportunity to dedicate more attention to each child. No reforms are possible without strong educators. But when teachers have too many classes or overly large groups, they can’t give each student the attention they need. The Socialists believe that reducing workload, ensuring stable teams, and providing fair pay are not privileges, but essential conditions for quality education.
When teachers have time and resources, they can help those who are struggling and support those ready to move ahead. This benefits everyone—both children who need help and those who progress faster. It’s important to understand that providing extra resources to some does not take opportunities away from others. On the contrary, support and an individualized approach make the class stronger and more united.
School as the community center
Another proposal aims to turn schools into true neighborhood hubs. The idea is for school buildings to remain open not just during class hours, but also in the evenings, on weekends, and throughout the summer. They would host free clubs, sports activities, and cultural events for both children and adults. This would help families balance work and childcare, while also turning schools into centers for community building.
This is not about increasing the workload for teachers. Additional activities would be led by dedicated specialists, with funding provided by the state. Similar initiatives are already working successfully in other European cities, helping to bring together people from different backgrounds and income levels.
Equal opportunities for all
Madrid is a region with significant social diversity. Some families easily overcome challenges, while others need extra support. Ignoring these differences leads to hidden inequality. The Socialists emphasize that supporting those in need does not limit opportunities for others. On the contrary, it builds a solid foundation for everyone, giving every child a chance to fulfill their potential regardless of family income.
Most residents of the capital share one wish—for their children to have more opportunities than they did. This is possible only when society moves forward together, not individually.
A comprehensive approach to reform
For a long time, education policy in Madrid has been a source of debate and contention. But now, more and more families are embracing the idea of a new social contract in the field of education. A strong public school is not a privilege for the few, but a guarantee for everyone seeking a better future for their children.
This is not about taking something away from some to give to others. The main goal is to improve what matters to the majority. Only the public system can provide equal opportunities, a high standard of education, and confidence in the future. Madrid has all the resources needed for change: professional teachers, engaged parents, and a desire to move forward. All that remains is to make education a priority for the entire capital.
