The governing coalition in Saaremaa, comprising members from Isamaa, the Center Party, and EKRE, is facing a potential split due to differences concerning the future of small schools in the region. Recently, the Saaremaa municipality announced plans to close three small schools with fewer than ten students each, a move that drew significant opposition from local communities which prompted the government to reconsider its stance. Instead of closure, a compromise was suggested; the schools would remain operational but would be consolidated under a joint management structure with another school.

Laura Heinsaar, the Deputy Mayor of Saaremaa, reported that the initial plan was to entirely shut down these educational institutions, but after consultations with residents, it became clear that there was strong community support for keeping the first grade classes open. The change in approach demonstrates the importance of community feedback in local government decision-making, particularly on sensitive issues like education.

The rapid changes in Saaremaa's school network have met with resistance from various quarters, highlighting a growing tension within the coalition. The outcome of this disagreement could not only affect the future of the small schools but also the stability of the ruling coalition itself, making it a critical issue for local governance and educational policy in Estonia's Saaremaa region.