Protesters gather outside school as president launches new academic year

A group of citizens protested outside the Escuela Espejo La Milagrosa on Monday, the same school where President Luis Abinader officially launched the 2026-2027 academic year. Members of the Citizen Collective for Education gathered near the school while the president and other officials were inside, voicing their grievances about the education system and the conditions of school personnel.

Their demands included a salary increase for janitors, support staff, and administrative employees within the Ministry of Education. Protesters also called for improved working conditions, with some highlighting that current salaries are insufficient and demanding payment of performance evaluation bonuses. One demonstrator, Ruki Antonio López, shared his personal struggle after 26 years of public service, stating he was dismissed after requesting a transfer and now faces financial difficulties supporting his four children.

The protesters also expressed dissatisfaction with the Dominican Teachers' Association (ADP), asserting that the organization has not supported their claims. The demonstration occurred concurrently with the official opening ceremony for the new school year, which is expected to serve over 2.6 million students nationwide.

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I have 26 years of public service and I was canceled after requesting a transfer to the Espejo La Milagrosa School.