It now seems likely that schools will not open on September 12 as planned. Greek teachers and professors of secondary education unions claim they will begin strikes, in protest against the cutting of their benefits and additional deductions for the unemployed. They are also concerned about the reduced number of permanent employees (600) and the 7.500 substitute teachers who will be hired this school year. It is expected that 11.000 teachers might quit.
Last year, due to reductions in their salaries, teachers lost money and benefits equlivalent to two wages, and according to the new announcements, they stand to lose even more.
Another problem is the great delay in printing books for the new school year. Only five out of the 1200 different books requested have been printed. The reason for this deficiency is that the Greek Publishing Organization of Educational Books will soon be abolished, and there are no temporary solutions to deal with its needs. In addition, the paper supply necessary for printing the books has yet to be acquired. As a result, students might not obtain their books until just before Christmas holidays!
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