Tartu City is reducing the size of its municipal kindergartens for the upcoming school year, with plans to open 14 fewer groups than during the current academic year. This decision results in the difficult measure of laying off 40 educators as part of the restructuring process. The administration's move reflects current educational policy shifts and responses to changing demographics in the region. Mayor Jane Saluorg commented on the necessity of this measure, citing budget constraints and the need to allocate resources more effectively. The reduction in kindergarten groups may lead to larger class sizes and impact the quality of early childhood education in Tartu, raising concerns among parents and educators alike.