School buses in Ludwigslust-Parchim: learning and swimming at a bargain price!

School buses in Ludwigslust-Parchim: learning and swimming at a bargain price!

In the Ludwigslust-Parchim region, schools have come up with something to give their students exciting learning experiences outside of the classroom. Again Northern Courier reported that 75 out of 82 schools take advantage of the transport companies' discounted occasional trips. For just 10 cents per person per kilometer, students can embark on an adventure outside the school walls.

Particular attention is paid to swimming lessons: a full 39% of trips lead to swimming pools. A goal that should not be neglected, after all, getting used to water is part of the important basic training for children. But that's not all: extracurricular learning experiences at scientific educational institutions, such as the phanTECHNIKUM or the Schwerin Zoo, are also very popular. Together, these account for 28% of trips. In addition, an impressive 39 trips out of 55 trips to places of democratic decision-making were carried out free of charge in 2024.

Political education and democratic roots

In December 2023, the district council made a decisive decision: Schools can now undertake free trips to places where democratic decision-making takes place. This initiative aims to give students a sense of democracy and engagement. Whether to the state parliament or to memorials such as the Old Synagogue in Hagenow, the idea behind it is clear: the experience of democracy should be made tangible.

The need for political education was also discussed at an eastern summit of the state student representatives. Among other things, the rise of extremist groups and how young people deal with political issues were discussed. The State student representation therefore calls for a strengthening of political education in schools. The demands range from an increase in the number of hours in political education to creative approaches such as simulation games and debates.

Media education and social responsibility

Another focus is on media education. At a time when social media plays a central role in political decision-making, it is essential that students acquire a solid foundation of media literacy. The student representatives are calling for regular training for teachers to ensure a consistently high quality of education.

It turns out that the schools in Ludwigslust-Parchim already have a good hand when it comes to designing learning opportunities that offer both education and fun. The close integration of political education with practical experience could also be crucial in shaping the future generation into responsible citizens. And that is not only desirable, but urgently necessary so that democracy remains vibrant.