Free schools as role models: District administrator fights against lesson cancellations

Free schools as role models: District administrator fights against lesson cancellations

In a recent article, Görlitz district administrator Stephan Meyer (CDU) expresses his belief that independent schools are a successful role model in the fight against class cancellations. According to a report by Saxon These schools are characterized by the flexibility to deploy staff optimally, which enables them to avoid absences.

In his remarks, Meyer emphasizes that the issue of canceled lessons is not nearly as relevant at independent schools as it is at state schools. A central aspect is the use of “multiprofessional teams”. These teams are made up of professionals from different disciplines who can respond quickly when teachers are unavailable. In research, multi-professional collaboration is also seen as the key to meeting the different needs of students. It's not just about relieving teachers, but also about providing students with individual support. This is shown by a study published on the website of SZH was published.

Multiprofessional collaboration

The idea of ​​multi-professional collaboration is particularly important in inclusive schools. Here, specialists from various professions, such as teachers, social workers and counselors, work hand in hand to make it easier for students to participate in class and to develop individual support plans. According to an analysis Lower Saxony education portal Clear agreements on communication and responsibilities are essential for a functioning collaboration.

But where there is light, there is also shadow. Schools are often faced with the challenge of bridging different opinions and reservations between professions. Clarifying roles, tasks and responsibilities is crucial to ensure effective cooperation. In this respect, “boundary work” – the coordination of activities and responsibilities – is a central topic that has increasingly come into focus in recent years.

Outlook for the future

Meyer also expresses the hope that the Free State will take up innovative concept ideas similar to those of the independent schools. Currently there is only a draft for a new school network plan in time, which is to be presented at the December meeting of the district council. The last school network plan dates from 2022 and the declining number of students, especially in rural areas, is an issue that cannot be ignored. Meyer made it clear that school closings are not currently an issue.

With an unconventional approach, he wants to ensure that students will continue to benefit from high-quality education in the future. While the Schkola in Hartau and the Evangelische Zinzendorfschulen Herrnhut are highlighted as positive examples, the question remains as to how quickly and effectively new structures can be implemented in order to create a sustainable solution to the challenges in the education system.