Moldova ponders financial incentives for school choice amid debate
Moldova's Education Ministry has ignited lively debate with a proposal offering €50 monthly allowances to parents for transporting children to larger schools (50+ students).
Parents in smaller schools welcome the potential for improved educational opportunities, while directors fear closures and job losses.
Minister Perciun emphasises parental agency and support, not direct control over the school network. Funding for "exemplary schools" would combine state budget and World Bank contributions.
Alexandra Tataru, principal of a 20-student school, worries about closure, noting small schools' existing financial struggles. Parents in villages often already incur transport costs, making the allowance attractive. One parent suggests revitalising smaller schools instead of closure.
School closures lie outside the ministry's authority, residing with local administrations. Moldova has over 100 schools with <50 students and over 300 with <100.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
