Mexico Raises Teacher Salaries by 9 Percent

Why this is here: Women make up roughly 70 percent of Mexico’s teaching workforce, often simultaneously managing both classroom instruction and household duties.

Mario Delgado, Mexico’s Secretary of Public Education, announced a 9 percent salary increase for teachers during a ceremony honoring educators in Mexico City. He presented the raise as recognition for teachers’ work and a reflection of President Sheinbaum’s commitment to improving their working and economic conditions. Delgado also stated the increase continues a trend of recovering teacher salaries after decades of stagnation.

During the event, attended by President Sheinbaum and numerous teachers, Delgado highlighted that women comprise seven of every ten educators and often balance school with household responsibilities. He also thanked Alfonso Cepeda, the Secretary General of the National Union of Education Workers, for their collaboration.

Notably, Delgado did not address the concerns of teachers from the National Coordinator of Education Workers, who were simultaneously protesting nearby. The announcement followed a recent debate regarding a proposed shortening of the school calendar, which Sheinbaum acknowledged and ultimately adjusted following feedback. The long-term impact of these financial adjustments, and how they address systemic issues, remains to be seen.