Israeli Teachers' Union Chief Threatens School Closure Over Education Ministry Policies

Ran Erez, chairman of the Israeli Teachers' Union, sharply criticized Education Minister Yoav Kish on Wednesday, warning that if the Ministry of Education does not change its policies over the summer, the upcoming school year may not open. Erez said the dispute over salary deductions for teachers is just a symptom of a deeper crisis in the education system. He stressed the urgency by stating, "No matter which party you vote for, if you care about the country's future, our near future is in danger."

Erez condemned the Ministry's decision to deduct pay from teachers after schools were closed on Kish's directive due to security concerns. He noted that teachers continued working remotely that day, yet received salary cuts for a closure decision made by the minister. Erez accused Kish of disregarding teachers, highlighting the minister's suggestion to take legal action instead of addressing the issue directly.

Beyond the salary dispute, Erez criticized Kish's broader policies, including cuts to special education hours and the cancellation of multiple education reforms. He described the situation as chaotic, with constant policy reversals and a worsening teacher shortage, especially in physics, mathematics, and English. Erez warned that these changes are damaging the education system and bluntly stated, "If I took a soda bottle, it would be better than him."

Erez also raised concerns about the integration of special education students in secondary schools, emphasizing the need for support to prevent neglect. He highlighted a growing wave of violence in schools, including attacks on teachers and students, attributing it to a lack of disciplinary frameworks. He concluded with a stark warning to the government: "If we do not achieve change during the summer, we will not open the school year."

Summary: Ran Erez, head of Israel's Teachers' Union, condemned Education Minister Yoav Kish's policies, warning that without changes this summer, the new school year may not start. Erez criticized salary deductions, cuts to special education, teacher shortages, and rising school violence, accusing Kish of neglecting educators and the education system.

Points: - Teachers' Union head warns school year may not open without policy changes this summer. - Salary deductions for teachers after security-related school closures sparked major dispute. - Minister Kish criticized for cutting special education hours and reversing reforms. - Teacher shortages worsen, especially in physics, math, and English subjects. - Rising school violence and lack of disciplinary measures concern educators. - Erez accuses Kish of ignoring teachers and prioritizing politics over education.

Topic: politics

Entities: {"people": ["Ran Erez", "Yoav Kish"], "organizations": ["Israeli Teachers' Union", "Ministry of Education"], "places": ["Israel"]}