Alicante’s upcoming mayoral candidate Ana Barceló, representing the PSPV, presented a comprehensive plan to keep the city’s education centers active beyond traditional school hours. The aim is to transform schools into lively social hubs that strengthen neighborhoods and foster a robust learning ecosystem. Barceló described how collaboration within the education sector, broader community involvement, and active learning communities can enrich daily life through cooperative, socially focused educational environments that deliver real value to residents.
A central component of this strategy is a social and educational program to be shared with teachers and families in the near future. A day of dialogue and community engagement will be held at CEIP Rabassa, underscoring the belief that extended school hours should support a wider range of extracurricular activities. The initiative envisions connecting schools with local community actors who can promote continuous learning, encourage broad participation, and nurture peaceful coexistence in everyday settings.
A Barceló administration would expand learning opportunities to morning sessions and summer periods under a consistent approach, while easing the balancing act faced by families who juggle work and caregiving duties. The plan includes extending school services during holidays to reach students facing social challenges or those with special needs. It also advocates policies that guarantee equal access to high-quality education and to a broad spectrum of social, cultural, and recreational activities for all students.
The proposal calls for ongoing evaluation of each school to gauge progress toward these objectives. The PSPV team notes that some centers may require additional staff through new employment arrangements. In other cases, partnerships may be formed with individuals or organizations operating in the education space without seeking profit, while ensuring compliance with legal obligations and carrying appropriate liability and personnel insurance.
Related efforts include addressing obstacles to the Edificant Plan to ensure it aligns with Alicante’s evolving educational needs. Barceló emphasized a commitment to adjusting the plan so that it better serves the city’s current and future requirements in education and student support. This approach aims to create a sustainable model where schools act as inclusive centers for learning, culture, and social interaction, benefiting families and the wider community alike.