Regular Classes Instead of Care… Strengthening Public Education Responsibility

As addressing the low birthrate emerges as a key task in the political arena, the Democratic Party is solidifying its proposal for a "3 PM simultaneous school dismissal system" for all elementary school grades as part of its presidential campaign. The intention is to formalize regular classes and extracurricular activities until 3 PM, moving away from the existing care-centered system.

On the 23rd, Channel A News reported that a Democratic Party policy committee official stated, "We are considering a plan where all students participate in regular classes or extracurricular programs until 3 PM, rather than operating care classrooms."

This initiative is not merely about expanding childcare but is aligned with the goal of strengthening public education by creating equal educational conditions from lower elementary levels to higher grades.

Concerns Exist Among Educators… Teacher Supply is a Core Task

However, there are concerns raised about the supply of teachers and the potential decline in teaching quality. A current teacher, referred to as Mr. A, expressed to the media, "The workload of teachers may increase excessively. I believe it is more important to maintain current class hours while enhancing the quality of education."

In response, the Democratic Party has stated that it will also pursue measures to increase the number of teachers. They plan to accommodate the extended class hours by adding regular teachers or expanding after-school staff on a temporary basis.

A Matter Also Mentioned by Lee Jae-myung… Signs of a Shift in Presidential Agenda

Lee Jae-myung, a candidate in the Democratic Party's presidential primary, had previously proposed the "3 PM school dismissal system" as a key pledge during the last presidential election. This policy is an extension of that commitment, aiming to enhance the quality of public education while easing the childcare burden on working families.

In a situation where responding to the low birthrate crisis and improving public education is simultaneously essential, the "3 PM school dismissal system" could serve as a cornerstone in the national reform of the childcare system, transcending mere educational policy. However, coordination with frontline stakeholders and the establishment of detailed strategies to ensure effectiveness are expected to be key challenges moving forward.

Image source: Unrelated material photo / gettyimagesbank, parents and children attending preliminary meetings / News1