In response to reports regarding the refusal of some directors of Centers for Personal Development Support and special schools to increase the salaries of employed kinesiotherapists, occupational therapists, and rehabilitation specialists, NART, as the largest professional organization working with children with special educational needs, expresses the following position:

The increase in teachers’ salaries as of January 1, 2023, is entirely justified and appropriate. However, it should be accompanied by a corresponding salary increase for kinesiotherapists, occupational therapists, and rehabilitation specialists working with children with special educational needs in kindergartens, schools, personal development support centers, and specialized units, for the following reasons:

1.            Kinesiotherapists, occupational therapists, and rehabilitation specialists play a key role in supporting children with special educational needs in achieving optimal physical, psychological, and social development. Their skills and professionalism are essential for the inclusive education of these children.

2.            The work of these specialists requires specialized knowledge and skills, as well as continuous professional development. They must be able to consider the individual needs and capabilities of each student and create personalized programs for their development. This demands additional training and expertise.

3.            There is a shortage of kinesiotherapists, occupational therapists, and rehabilitation specialists in the educational system. The growth of their salaries could help attract more professionals to the field and encourage existing ones to remain within the education system. This would ensure better support for children with special educational needs and improve the quality of inclusive education.

4.            Raising the salaries of these specialists would serve as recognition of their important contribution to education and care for children with special needs. It would motivate them to continue developing professionally and achieving even better results in their work.

5.            Teachers are receiving salary increases to improve their financial situation and motivation. Specialists working with children with special educational needs deserve the same recognition and salary adjustments, especially given the complexity and specificity of their tasks.

In conclusion, NART emphasizes that the growth of the salaries of kinesiotherapists, occupational therapists, and rehabilitation specialists working in educational institutions with children with special educational needs is both appropriate and necessary. This will acknowledge and value their vital work, improve the quality of education for children, and help retain qualified professionals in the education system, who work daily in teams with resource and general education teachers.