"The Var has the highest average number of students per class in France": interview with the departmental secretary of FSU-SNUipp 83

What are the main themes of the FSU-SNUipp 83 project for the next three years?

Combating inequality within schools in order to build an emancipatory and democratic school. Schools today are not egalitarian; they even reinforce inequality. For example, by refocusing learning on French and mathematics, we exclude all other disciplines, such as physical education, particularly for the most working-class classes, who do not have access to them outside of school.

We must also work on genuine recognition of National Education staff to address the attractiveness crisis. The profession is experiencing a downgrade. Today, a teacher earns 1.2 times the minimum wage, whereas in the 1980s, they earned 2.2 times the minimum wage.

Also improve the working conditions of teachers, which have a direct impact on the learning conditions of students.

And finally, think about how to bring alternatives within the school that are more respectful of human rights and ecology.

What are the specific issues in Var in primary and nursery schools?

In the Var region, we have the highest average number of students per class in France, with just under 23 students per class, compared to 21 nationally. In some places, there are classes with 28, 29, or 30 students. Reducing this average is a good lever to help all students succeed, especially as part of the implementation of inclusive education, which we support.

What are the difficulties encountered in inclusive education?

Inclusive education allows every student, disabled or not, to attend their local school. But there is a lack of political will, particularly to address cognitive disabilities. This leads to explosive situations where disabled children are poorly received, other students witness violent situations, and staff are completely helpless. For these reasons, our congress will highlight the issue of AESH (Accompanying Students with Disabilities). These staff are not properly trained and are very poorly paid, just under €1,000 per month for 24 hours of support. Since 2019, AESH have been pooled and can work with multiple students. Our union advocates for individualized support and recognition within the civil service.

What do you think of Emmanuel Macron's idea of ​​launching a popular consultation on holiday periods and school timetables?

This is a secondary issue; the government isn't making the decisions essential to improving schools. We'd like a policy that addresses the real issues: one that provides more resources, creates more jobs, and revalues ​​teachers to attract new ones and create a strong school. After that, we can focus on improving learning times.

The 2026 budget announces yet another massive job cut. Our pay during regular sick leave will drop from 100% to 90%. For these two reasons, we are calling for mobilization and a strike on May 13th.