The Department of Education claims the decision aims to prevent school segregation and optimize resources. However, families and school boards in Tarragona have expressed outrage, noting that nearby private-subsidized schools are maintaining their full capacity while public centers face reductions.

In addition to the closures, new regulations will lower student-to-teacher ratios only in public schools, limiting classes to 17-19 students. This move, combined with recent changes to school zoning boundaries, has raised fears that families might opt for private education to guarantee a spot near their homes.