In a pivotal meeting of the Vista Pública Comisión de Hacienda, Asuntos Federales y Junta de Supervisión Fiscal on April 26, 2024, concerns over educational funding and staffing were front and center. The discussions highlighted a significant drop in student enrollment, with only 346,000 students reported, raising questions about the sustainability of current educational expenditures.

A key point of contention was the justification for maintaining a high number of administrative staff despite declining student numbers. One committee member emphasized the disconnect between student enrollment and the physical maintenance costs of school facilities, arguing that even with reduced enrollment, the financial obligations for upkeep remain unchanged. "I have to maintain the entire school, even if only 30% of it is used," they stated, underscoring the financial strain on the education system.

The meeting also scrutinized the hiring of nearly a hundred trust employees within the Department of Education. The secretary defended these positions, stating that trust employees are essential for implementing public policy. However, she acknowledged the need for ongoing evaluation and potential reductions in these roles, noting that the current expenditure on trust employees constitutes just 0.003% of the general fund budget.

Calls for greater transparency in budget allocation were made, with requests for detailed reports on school budgets and spending. The committee expressed a desire for a comprehensive plan that aligns with the real needs of Puerto Rico's education system, emphasizing the importance of legislative oversight in these matters.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency for a strategic approach to educational funding and staffing was clear, with members advocating for a plan that addresses the challenges posed by declining enrollment and financial constraints. The outcomes of these discussions could significantly impact the future of education in Puerto Rico.