Valencian teachers back indefinite strike from May 11 amid growing education crisis

Teachers across the Valencian Community are preparing for a possible indefinite strike starting on May 11, following a consultation that revealed overwhelming support for industrial action. Thousands of educators took part in the vote, signalling deep frustration within the public education system and a growing willingness to escalate protests.

The proposed start date emerged as the clear preference among respondents, ahead of alternative options such as later dates or shorter, staggered stoppages. While the final decision still requires formal approval at a union assembly, momentum is clearly building toward a prolonged strike that could extend into the final weeks of the academic year.

Deadlock in negotiations fuels unrest

At the heart of the dispute is a breakdown in talks between teaching unions and the regional education authorities. Union representatives argue that months of discussions have failed to produce meaningful progress on key issues affecting both staff and students.

Educators point to a lack of concrete proposals around salary improvements, class sizes, and investment in school infrastructure. After repeated meetings without significant outcomes, unions now describe negotiations as effectively stalled, prompting a shift toward more forceful action.

Among the central demands are measures to restore lost purchasing power, reduce overcrowding in classrooms, expand teaching staff, and improve working conditions across schools. Teachers argue that these changes are essential not only for their profession but also for maintaining education standards.

High participation expected despite concerns

The consultation results suggest that participation in the strike could be substantial. A large majority of teachers indicated they would support industrial action regardless of its format, pointing to widespread dissatisfaction across the sector.

That said, some educators remain hesitant about joining a prolonged strike. Financial pressures are a key concern, as taking part would mean a loss of income. Others worry about the timing, given the proximity to the end of the school year and the potential impact on students’ academic progress.

Even so, the overall sentiment within the profession appears to favour collective action as the only remaining avenue to push for change.

Families voice concern over student impact

The prospect of an indefinite strike has raised concerns among families, particularly as it could disrupt the final stretch of the academic calendar. Parent associations have expressed understanding and even support for teachers’ demands but are urging both sides to reach an agreement quickly to avoid prolonged disruption.

Many families acknowledge the structural challenges facing the education system, including resource shortages, ageing infrastructure, and insufficient specialist staff. These issues, they argue, go beyond labour disputes and directly affect the quality of education students receive.

A critical decision ahead

The coming days will be crucial, as unions prepare to hold a final assembly to confirm whether the strike will go ahead. At the same time, they are calling for renewed talks with the regional government in an effort to break the impasse.

If no agreement is reached, May 11 could mark the beginning of one of the most significant education strikes in the region in recent years—potentially bringing widespread disruption and placing further pressure on authorities to respond to long-standing demands.