El Salvador's public schools are implementing strict new discipline rules under the country's new military-captain education minister. These rules include mandatory military-style haircuts, uniform inspections, and weekly "Civic Monday" drills. While the government views these measures as restoring order and national identity, teachers' unions criticize them as a form of militarization of education, raising concerns about increased abuses of power against students and teachers. The rules, though previously existing, were not enforced until now, leading to widespread barber shop visits and student videos documenting the changes.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.