Mexico City parents block roads in protest over soaring private school fees

Private school fees in Mexico City have surged by 25-40% over the past five years, leaving many families struggling. On Tuesday, frustrated parents took to the streets to protest the sharp increases. Around 30 demonstrators blocked a major road in the Gustavo A. Madero borough, demanding action from authorities.

The protest unfolded on Miguel Othón de Mendizábal Avenue, a key route for drivers and public transport. Parents set up a roadblock, causing long delays and traffic chaos. Officers from the Citizen Security Secretariat were quickly sent to manage the situation and ease congestion.

Tuition hikes have outpaced wages, with annual increases averaging 6-10%. Factors driving the rises include high inflation—peaking at 8.7% in 2022—as well as post-COVID recovery costs and the peso's depreciation. Schools also cite higher operational expenses, such as teacher salaries and utility bills, as reasons for the steep fees.

Protesters called for direct talks with officials to find solutions. Their main demand was for authorities to intervene and regulate what they describe as unreasonable price jumps.

The blockade disrupted travel for hours before security teams restored normal flow. Parents have made their concerns clear, but no immediate response from education or government officials has been announced. The issue of rising school costs remains unresolved for many families in the city.