Taiwanese Teachers' Unions Fear New 'Deputy Chief' System Will Increase, Not Decrease, Workload

Taiwanese teachers' unions are raising concerns over recent amendments to regulations governing staffing in elementary and middle schools. Nine unions, including the Taiwan Education Industry Union (TEIU), argue that the Ministry of Education's proposed establishment of a "deputy section chief" system, along with measures for administrative specialization, may not genuinely alleviate the administrative burden on frontline teachers.

The unions criticize the Ministry of Education for amending the staffing regulations twice in less than three months without adequate public consultation. They believe that such significant changes, affecting the rights of teachers nationwide, require more inclusive discussions to ensure the new systems align with the practical needs of the classroom.

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If the actual administrative workload does not decrease, but only the job title or supervisor's allowance is adjusted, it may increase the administrative burden on teachers and affect their teaching work.

While the Ministry of Education aims for administrative specialization, potentially allowing non-teaching staff to fill leadership roles or hiring contract employees, the unions question the feasibility without increased formal administrative positions and funding. They also point to the potential instability and high turnover rates associated with contract personnel.

Specifically, the TEIU worries that the new deputy section chief role might still be filled by teachers. If the actual administrative workload does not decrease, simply adjusting job titles or providing additional allowances could inadvertently increase teachers' administrative responsibilities, thereby impacting their teaching duties. The unions are urging the Ministry of Education to re-evaluate the proposed revisions, initiate broader public consultations, and substantially increase both formal administrative staffing and budgets in schools. They also advocate for a fundamental review of administrative tasks to reduce non-teaching duties, allowing teachers more time for instruction and student support.

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The Ministry of Education's proposed direction for administrative specialization, allowing staff to prioritize roles or hiring contract employees, may be difficult to implement without increasing formal administrative staff and related funding.