Here are some of her key achievements during her tenure:
* Education Reform: Villarroel played a central role in the implementation of Chile's Education Reform (Ley 20.529). This reform aimed to improve the quality of education in the country by focusing on:
* Free and quality education for all children: This included expanding access to pre-K and making early childhood education mandatory.
* Increased autonomy for schools and teachers: This was intended to empower schools to tailor their curriculum to meet the needs of their students.
* A more equitable system: This aimed to address the historical disparities in access to education based on socioeconomic status.
* Teacher Training and Development: Villarroel focused on enhancing professional development opportunities for teachers. This involved:
* Investing in teacher training programs: This included programs to improve teaching skills, curriculum development, and classroom management.
* Creating a more competitive salary structure: This was aimed at attracting and retaining high-quality teachers.
* Improving Infrastructure: Villarroel's efforts led to significant investments in school infrastructure, including:
* Construction and renovation of schools: This aimed to provide students with a safer and more conducive learning environment.
* Investment in technology: This included the provision of computers and internet access to improve learning opportunities.
* Addressing Educational Inequalities: Villarroel was particularly focused on reducing educational disparities between socioeconomic groups. This involved:
* Focusing on early childhood education: This aimed to address the learning gap that often emerges early in a child's life.
* Providing targeted support to students from disadvantaged backgrounds: This included scholarships, tutoring programs, and other resources to help students succeed.
Beyond these specific achievements, Villarroel is recognized for her strong leadership and commitment to improving the quality of education in Chile. Her work has been praised by many, although the Education Reform has also faced criticism, primarily regarding the pace of implementation and the level of impact on students.
It's important to note that the specific achievements of any politician are subject to interpretation and debate. There will be those who focus on the positive aspects of their work, while others may highlight the challenges or shortcomings.