An educational solution for small municipalities
In an effort to ensure access to quality public education, the Community of Madrid has implemented the Grouped Rural Schools (CRA), which currently serve over 1,400 students in various localities. This initiative allows families with children aged between 3 and 12 years not to have to travel to large cities to receive an adequate education.
The CRAs are distributed across eight main locations, situated in towns such as Lozoya, Cabanillas de la Sierra, and Zarzalejo. Each of these centres has a teaching staff of 180 teachers, who are dedicated to providing personalised attention to students. This approach is made possible through the use of mixed units, where children of different ages are grouped together, promoting a more individualised learning experience.
The regional government has highlighted that the annual funding allocated for the operation of these schools exceeds 200,000 euros. This investment aims not only to improve facilities but also to ensure that each student receives the necessary attention for their academic and personal development.
In addition to the regular teaching staff, the CRAs also have itinerant teachers specialised in areas such as Foreign Language-English, Physical Education, and Music. These professionals travel to the various localities associated with the CRA, thus ensuring comprehensive training for all students.
Recently, the Minister of Education, Science and Universities, Mercedes Zarzalejo, visited the CRA Los Olivos in Valdelaguna. This centre offers a total of 17 combined classes for Early Childhood and Primary Education, serving 219 students this school year. During her visit, Zarzalejo emphasised the importance of the rural educational model as an effective response to the specific needs of these communities.
As the school year progresses, the government led by Isabel Díaz Ayuso continues to promote this educational model as a viable alternative to the demographic and educational challenges faced by rural areas. The unique educational offerings in each locality are considered a distinctive feature that strengthens community spirit and fosters local development.
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