Latvia is moving forward with a new school funding model, dubbed “Programma Skola,” that aims to create a more equitable and competitive salary structure for teachers across the country. The shift away from the previous “Money Follows the Student” system is already sparking debate among municipalities and educational institutions.
Under the new model, schools that meet criteria established by the Ministry of Education and Science will receive full funding for teacher salaries. Those that don’t will need to supplement funding from their municipal budgets. Currently, ten municipalities won’t need to provide additional funds, while the remaining local governments are now evaluating how to proceed with their school networks.
The Ministry of Education and Science acknowledged on January 27, 2026, that the implementation of the new model is a complex process involving multiple stakeholders with differing interests. Education and Science Minister Dace Melbārde urged for a swift resolution, stating that the ministry cannot dictate the best course of action for each municipality. She encouraged local governments to actively explain the changes to their communities to avoid widespread protests.
The transition is proving particularly challenging for secondary schools, which face strict student enrollment criteria under the new regulations. In cities and administrative centers, schools will need at least 120 students in grades 10-12, and 60 students in the high school level in other areas. This shift is forcing municipalities to confront demanding decisions about school reorganization and closures, a process some have previously delayed due to public pressure.
Some municipalities have proactively reorganized their school networks in anticipation of the funding changes, while others, like Alūksne Novads, have been more hesitant. Jēkabpils Novads, for example, delayed action, citing a desire not to “run ahead of the train,” but was ultimately forced to craft significant changes to its educational institutions this year, sparking protests and a petition on Manabalss.lv.
Both the Latvian Union of Municipalities and the Latvian Education and Science Workers’ Trade Union have been unsuccessful in securing concessions, such as a reduction in student enrollment requirements for secondary schools in administrative centers. The Latvian Union of Municipalities argues that the current requirements may be unattainable for cities like Līvāni, Aizkraukle, and Balvi, given demographic trends and declining student populations.
Concerns also remain regarding the clarity of the regulations, funding principles, minimum student enrollment requirements, and educational accessibility. The Finance Ministry has warned that the new regulations could have an unforeseen impact on the state budget and may not achieve the stated goal of streamlining the school network and efficiently allocating resources.
The Ministry of Justice has suggested clarifying the definition of alternative schools and evaluating the legal basis of the regulations. The Latvian Private School Association expressed concerns that the proposed regulations could jeopardize the existence of private schools. The Latvian Employers’ Confederation also highlighted the shortage of teachers and support staff, suggesting a potential reduction in state funding for schools with prolonged vacancies.
Inga Vanaga, head of the Latvian Education and Science Workers’ Trade Union, stated that the Ministry of Education and Science did not incorporate their suggestions, but the union will continue to advocate for equal treatment of all schools, including private institutions. She questioned why private schools are granted a three-year transition period, while rural public schools are not.
The move to “Programma Skola” underscores the ongoing challenges of balancing educational quality, equitable funding, and demographic shifts in Latvia’s regional school systems.
