Riga, Jan 28 (LETA) - At least 22 educational institutions could be designated as availability schools, but the number of available schools could change when local governments make decisions on the school network, LETA news agency has learned from the Education and Science Ministry.

The plan is to designate the status of availability schools to those education institutions that do not meet the standard criteria but whose activities are necessary to prevent pupils from having to travel too far. This status will be determined by the ministry in cooperation with the local authority.

Education authorities with this status will have to ensure that there are at least 15 pupils in each of the 1-3, 4-6 and 7-9 grade groups, and at least 30 pupils in the 10-12 grade group.

Seven educational institutions in Kurzeme are proposed to be granted the status of availability schools: Aizpute Secondary School, Dundaga Secondary School, Engure Secondary School, Nica Secondary School, Pavilosta Elementary School, Roja Secondary School and Vainode Secondary School.

In Vidzeme, this status could be applied to six educational institutions - Jaunpiebalga Secondary School, Gulbene Regional Secondary School, Rujiena Secondary School, Salacgriva Secondary School, Smiltene Secondary School and Valka Janis Cimze Gymnasium.

It could also apply to four schools in Zemgale - Auce Secondary School, Mazzalve Primary School, Skaistkalne Secondary School and Viesīie Secondary School.

In Latgale, the status of availability school could be granted to Karsava Secondary School, Kaunata Secondary School, Dagda Secondary School, Vilaka Secondary School and Tilza Elementary School.

At the same time, the ministry allows for changes in the number of availability schools, with local governments deciding on the school network and coordinating its justification with the ministry.

The new funding model Program At School provides that the target subsidies from the state budget would be allocated in full to municipalities that have an organized school network.

The number of pupils will continue to be the decisive criterion for the school network in municipalities.

The ministry has committed to implement the reform from September 1 this year, but the necessary funding is not foreseen in this year's budget or in the future.

Education and Science Minister Anda Caksa (New Unity) has promised to clarify the amount of funding available by the beginning of March. This will determine whether the model will be implemented in full or in part.