Milagros Tolón, the new Spanish Minister of Education, is facing her first significant challenge as the Council of State holds a crucial vote on a proposed law aimed at lowering student ratios in classrooms. This law seeks to maintain a maximum of 22 students per class in early childhood and primary education and 25 in secondary education. Additionally, it proposes to secure the maximum weekly teaching hours for public school faculty to 23 hours in elementary schools and 18 hours in high schools. Tolón argues that reducing class sizes will lead to an increase in the quality of education and decrease the overwhelming workload imposed on teachers by regulations set by the previous Popular Party administration.

The proposed changes reflect a significant shift in educational policy in Spain, targeting historical challenges within the public education system. By prioritizing smaller class sizes, the government aims to foster a more conducive learning environment where teachers can offer more individualized attention to students. This approach is expected to address longstanding concerns about educational effectiveness and teacher burnout, which have been exacerbated by the pressures of larger class sizes.

Critics of the previous policies have long argued that high student-to-teacher ratios negatively impact learning outcomes, particularly in early education where foundational skills are developed. The Minister's proactive stance on this issue could reshape the educational landscape in Spain, signaling a move towards more student-centered learning strategies. As the vote approaches, the implications of this policy change will be closely monitored by educators, parents, and policymakers alike, with potential repercussions for future educational reforms in the country.