Coalition dispute stalls education bill on special schools and teaching assistants

Robert Plaga, the minister of education, has put forward legislation that would limit the admission of pupils with mild learning or sensory disorders to regular schools, directing many to special institutions. The Motoristé faction and SPD demand the stricter version of the bill, refusing to drop their demands, which creates uncertainty about a vote on Monday. Plaga contends that existing special schools are already over-burdened and costly, and that one outlet number of children with special needs does not justify the changes.

Opponents such as Martin Beneš label the proposal undignified and potentially unconstitutional, while NGOs warn it could deepen school segregation. Meanwhile, a separate draft law seeks to institutionalise teaching assistants, with debates over staffing levels and allocation continuing in the coalition talks.