Former teachers from the Grasow-Gymnasium celebrate a reunion in Kirchmöser

Former teachers from the Grasow-Gymnasium celebrate a reunion in Kirchmöser

In Brandenburg an der Havel, former teachers from the Märkisches Gymnasium “Friedrich Grasow” celebrate traditions that go far beyond the closure of their school in 2009. Every year, the former educators meet in the Kirchmöser sailing home to exchange memories and reflect on their time at the school, which has almost 900 students. These meetings are organized by Ute Schulz, a former teacher known for her persistence and energy. Their commitment has made this recurring gathering a popular institution, with roots stretching back to the school's founding in 1991.

The origins of the Märkisches Gymnasium “Friedrich Grasow” lie in the Ernst Altenkirch Polytechnic High School (POS). Under the new name, the school experienced a heyday until it was merged in 2008, with 56 teachers working there. The first class of high school graduates graduated in 1997, and the school enjoyed great popularity in the years that followed. Ulrich Klatt, the former deputy headmaster, emphasizes the strong team spirit of the teachers, which was considered indispensable even in difficult times. Nevertheless, a decline in the number of students forced the city council to decide on a merger with the Bertolt-Brecht-Gymnasium in 2005, which was finally completed in 2008.

A lasting legacy

The closure in 2009 was a sad moment for many, but not the end of the community. While around 15 teachers moved to the Bertolt-Brecht-Gymnasium, the memories of the special time remained alive. The Otto Tschirch High School has now moved into the former Grasow High School building. There are reports of positive experiences and lasting friendships among former teachers. After the closure, Ulrich Klatt founded a new high school in Stahnsdorf, followed by Christina Kinner, who founded a new institution in Falkensee.

Christina Kinner's wish at the time for former students and teachers to meet regularly was fulfilled in the celebratory annual gatherings. Kinner, who died in March 2024, is valued by many for her humane and fair treatment. Their vision lives on through the meetings that not only express retrospection but also connection and gratitude.

The next meeting next year has already been decided and will once again offer the opportunity to meet old friends and reminisce. The school archives, such as the BBF | platform The DIPF's library for educational history research plays an important role in this, as they maintain and make accessible collections from the history of schools and teacher training institutions. All of these factors contribute to keeping the legacy of the Märkisches Gymnasium “Friedrich Grasow” alive and continuing to consolidate the importance of educational history. Information about the school archive is available on the [BBF] website (https://schularchive.bbf.dipf.de/index.php/Hauptseite).