**Parents Take Over Edouard Seguin Preschool Again Due to Lack of Custodian**
In Tijuana, concerned parents have once again taken action, seizing control of the Edouard Seguin preschool. This protest comes as they demand the hiring of a permanent custodian, a position that has remained unfilled for nearly two years. During this time, two dedicated mothers have volunteered to handle the school’s cleaning duties.
The school’s custodian vacancy has persisted since October 2022, when the previous staff member retired. The education system has failed to appoint a qualified replacement, much to the frustration of the parent community. According to Leslie Salas, a representative of the school’s committee, the parents have been searching for a solution with no success from authorities. “We need this resolved immediately,” she explained.
Currently, parents contribute a monthly fee of 100 pesos to pay for cleaning services provided by the volunteering mothers. Recently, however, one mother has been unable to continue, leaving all tasks to just one individual. “She can’t handle everything alone because the school is too large,” Salas remarked.
In a bid to expedite a resolution, dozens of parents have blocked the school using chains, locks, and protest signs, declaring that the blockade will remain until a new, competent custodian is appointed. This isn’t the first instance of such protest; the parents took similar action last year with similar demands. JazmÃn Castillo, a former committee member, remembers that previous attempts were ignored, requiring drastic measures for any official response.
**Related Developments in the Tijuana Educational Sector**
**Tensions Rise in Tijuana Schools Over Staff Shortages**
The situation at Edouard Seguin preschool is not isolated. Across Tijuana, numerous schools are facing operational challenges due to a shortage of teaching staff. Eleven schools have been reported as closed due to the lack of available teachers. Moreover, several secondary school teachers have joined in solidarity with ongoing protests led by the education workers’ union, demanding timely payments and fair treatment.
In another instance, parents at the Cucapá kindergarten have voiced serious concerns over alleged financial mismanagement and neglect, further complicating the region’s educational landscape.
These issues highlight a widespread crisis within the region’s education system, emphasizing the urgent need for administrative attention and effective solutions to ensure students receive the consistent education and care they deserve.
**Housing Market Challenges Persist in Tijuana**
Separately, in local news, the Tijuana housing market continues to present significant challenges. With a demand for over 120,000 affordable homes, the city faces an uphill battle in balancing housing needs. Economic factors have prevented expectations for price reductions any time soon, putting additional pressure on prospective homebuyers in the area.