The Dolna Gymnasium in Straseni District is set to close due to the low number of students. The Straseni District Council, which made the decision, states that the school currently has 84 students, and this number is expected to drop to 73 by September 1, IPN reports.

"This decision was not arbitrary but is based on current legislation, which stipulates that institutions with fewer than 90 students may be subject to reorganization or closure to ensure quality education for all children," the council's statement reads.

Straseni authorities also cite difficulties in securing teaching staff. Some teachers are retired, while others work multiple jobs or commute from other localities.

Additionally, the school lacks necessary facilities, including specialized classrooms, modern furniture, IT equipment, and sufficient educational resources.

The institution also faces a budget deficit of 1.4 million lei, which limits opportunities for salaries, development, and modernization.

To ensure access to quality education, students will be transferred to Ion Creanga Gymnasium in Micleuseni, located just three kilometers away. The new school offers ample space, qualified teachers, and better learning conditions.

Authorities will provide transportation for students to and from school throughout the academic year. Additionally, teachers from Dolna will have the opportunity to seek employment at Micleuseni Gymnasium.

"We understand the reactions, emotions, and concerns of parents, but the main goal of this decision is to protect the best interests of the child," stated the District Council's press release.

On Tuesday, deputies from the Bloc of Communists and Socialists accused the government of planning to close two schools - one in Dolna, Straseni District, and another in Plopi, Cantemir District. The MPs held a press briefing in Parliament, joined by parents of students and representatives from the two localities. They urged authorities not to cut costs at the expense of children and not to close the schools, warning that such decisions could have negative consequences for education and communities as a whole.