Phase 2 of education salary reform being prepared for after 2028

ORANJESTAD — Aruba’s Ministry of Education is continuing preparations for phase 2 of the salary reform for the education sector, focusing on simplifying the salary structure, continuous professional development and reviewing salary progression for teachers and classroom assistants.

According to Minister Gerlien Croes, government departments, unions and education stakeholders have been involved in the process since March 2026. The work includes revising job descriptions, examining the maximum age used for salary progression and reviewing the position of classroom assistants currently placed on teacher salary scales. These assistants are also expected to receive a salary increase in phase 2.

Several meetings and consultation sessions were held throughout 2026 to gather input from the education sector. Once the new draft job descriptions are completed, they will be presented to the field for validation.

The reform is not limited to salaries. The ministry says class sizes, support structures for students and teachers, professional development and modern pedagogical and teaching models will also be taken into account.

Phase 1 of the reform was formalized through the 2026 budget. The second payment under phase 1 is scheduled for January 1, 2028, while phase 2 is expected to begin after 2028.