School occupation moves into 2nd Day

The occupation of the Scuola Superiore in Barga by students protesting against the “Gelmini reforms” moved into the second day. The 24 hour a day occupation is part of the growing wave of protests against cuts and reforms imposed by Berlusconi’s young education minister, Mariastella Gelmini. Critics argue they will set back the clock 30 years or more in schools.
Morale was high this morning inside the school at a meeting held in the corridors crammed full with students, some of whom had passed their first night inside the school (article here) They listened to an impassioned speech from the newly emerging leader of the student body, Paolo Marotta who informed them that this morning the Gelmini reforms had been passed into law and now the gloves were off.

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A collection was organised and people sent off to the supermarkets to stock up with food for the continuing occupation of the school. Lessons are still being organised and attended but without the aid of teachers as all are self run by the students and covering subjects probably not usually taught in these classrooms under “normal” circumstances. The titles on hand written notes posted outside the classrooms now show classes covering questions and answers concerning problems such as sexual education, drugs and alcohol.

Click on the link below to hear one of the student leaders, Paolo Marotta giving his speech to the assembled students this morning (in Italiano)

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• Protesting students occupy school