Concerns over delayed salary payments and lack of communication from the Department of Education took center stage during the public hearing of the Education, Tourism, and Culture Commission on January 31. Educators expressed frustration over unresolved issues related to the career advancement program, known as "carrera magisterial," which has left many teachers feeling undervalued and unsupported.

Professor Denisse Berríos highlighted her ongoing struggle to receive the salary adjustments she is owed, despite fulfilling all requirements for reactivation and submitting necessary documentation. "I have complied with all my evidence... and yet, I have not received the payment I deserve," she stated, emphasizing that many teachers are in similar situations. Berríos criticized the generic responses from the department, stating that they fail to address individual cases adequately.

The meeting also featured Miriam Rivera Pérez, a professional counselor, who voiced her concerns about potential repercussions for speaking out. "We are here not just for ourselves, but for our colleagues," she said, underscoring the fear of retaliation that educators face when advocating for their rights.

Both educators called for transparency and prompt action from the Department of Education, urging officials to provide clear guidance and support for teachers navigating the complexities of the career advancement process. The lack of timely responses and the overwhelming uncertainty surrounding salary adjustments have left many educators feeling neglected and anxious about their financial futures.

As the commission continues to address these pressing issues, the educators' testimonies serve as a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by teachers in Puerto Rico, highlighting the urgent need for systemic reform and accountability within the education system.