Secondary school teachers in Montevideo, Uruguay, initiated a strike demanding increased funding for public schools. The teachers’ association, led by Verónica Méndez, cites inadequate infrastructure as a primary concern, highlighting issues like broken windows and insufficient heating during the winter months. Education Minister Pablo da Silveira stated that the government will not meet the teachers’ demand for a 6+1% budget increase. Méndez specifically referenced students needing to bring hot water bottles to school due to the cold. The strike aims to pressure the government to prioritize improvements to school facilities and learning conditions. Negotiations between the teachers’ union and the government are ongoing, with no immediate resolution in sight. The strike’s impact on students and the academic calendar remains to be seen.