Quintana Roo Teachers May End Strike, Return to Classrooms

Tulum, Quintana Roo — More than two months after the start of a teachers' strike in Quintana Roo, educators are evaluating a possible return to classrooms by late April, though the final decision rests with the Central Struggle Committee. The prolonged suspension of classes has severely impacted students' education, sparking frustration among parents and authorities.

Growing Concerns Over Academic and Emotional Impact

The strike, which began on February 26 in protest of reforms to the ISSSTE Law, has halted public education for basic and upper-secondary levels across multiple municipalities. Thousands of students have lost weeks of instruction, exacerbating learning gaps—particularly among younger children struggling to continue studies at home.

In Tulum, a vote among teachers revealed that 98% are willing to resume classes by April 28. However, the Central Struggle Committee must approve the decision before schools can reopen. For many parents, the potential return comes too late, compounding disruptions from previous strikes and pandemic-related setbacks.

“Teachers have the right to protest, but our children also have the right to an education. They shouldn’t keep bearing the brunt of political decisions,” said Mariela López, a parent in Playa del Carmen.

Lack of Contingency Measures Deepens Inequality

Unlike past protests, no contingency measures—such as online classes or supplemental assignments—were implemented during this strike. The absence of formal academic activities has widened educational disparities in a state where not all households have resources to support independent learning.

While teachers argue that the reforms threaten their labor rights and benefits, critics question whether students should pay the price for the conflict. “There are legal avenues to protest without completely halting public education. More than two months without classes cannot be seen as an act of justice,” said a school administrator who requested anonymity.

A Temporary Pause, Not a Resolution

Though a return to classrooms appears imminent, the strike has left lasting damage to the 2024-2025 academic year. Teachers insist their movement will continue through other means, but the immediate challenge will be recovering lost time and rebuilding trust among schools, families, and the broader educational community.

The prolonged disruption underscores the tension between labor rights and students' access to education, leaving Quintana Roo’s public schools to grapple with the consequences long after the strike ends.