Lower house approves controversial funding bill for school non-education staff

The Czech lower house has approved a controversial shift in school funding: from next year, salaries for non-teaching staff—such as janitors, cleaners, and kitchen workers—will no longer be paid by the state but by municipalities and regional governments. The change has become subject of bitter and heated political fight in an election year. It was pushed through by the ruling coalition despite opposition from ANO Party, Party of Direct Democracy , and education unions, ánd is part of a broader amendment to the education law that now moves to the Senate. The government promises to compensate local authorities through increased tax revenues, but critics argue the funds will fall short. The amendment also includes new provisions for school psychologists, dual education, and hybrid learning options.