School ruins or learning paradise? The future of special schools in Gifhorn!

School ruins or learning paradise? The future of special schools in Gifhorn!

Going to school can be a challenge for many children, but when you have a daughter with autism and epilepsy, finding the right educational institution becomes an especially difficult task. Torsten Meyer from Gifhorn knows this problem all too well. He and his family returned to China to provide Elisabeth Siri, who is currently in the 8th grade at Neudenker2, with a suitable education. However, in recent years it has not been easy to find a suitable school that meets his daughter's special needs. Kurt Gifhorn reports that Lebenshilfe Gifhorn recently founded a special school with a focus on intellectual development to offer support to such families.

Another aspect that increases uncertainty is the announcement that Lower Saxony will stop payments for day-care centers on July 31, 2027. This raises questions about the future of schools with special support offers and their possibilities. Some parents are already appealing to the public to raise awareness of the urgent needs and possibly bring about change.

Inclusive school education in Lower Saxony

The introduction of inclusive schools in Lower Saxony since the 2013/14 school year was actually intended to ensure more equality in the education system. A resolution by the Lower Saxony state parliament in 2012 met with broad approval on this topic. The aim is to provide every child with barrier-free and equal access, regardless of their individual learning requirements. Autism Lower Saxony makes it clear that parents have the choice whether they want to send their children to a general school or a special school. This flexibility is particularly important for children with special educational support needs.

Inclusion means that students are taught together, regardless of their individual requirements. The education portal for Lower Saxony describes that public schools specifically break down barriers and create structures to enable inclusive teaching. The aim is to create a learning environment in which every child receives the support they need.

The challenge for parents and students

However, the reality is not always as rosy as the targets. The transition to an inclusive education system, even for older age groups, represents a challenge, especially at a time when financing for specific support offers is uncertain. Parents who advocate for their children often find themselves in a dilemma between the desire for individual support and the educational options available.

While inclusive education continues to be pursued in Lower Saxony, it is crucial that the efforts in practice also reach the affected families. Teachers must be well trained and supported in order to optimally perceive and promote the diversity of learners in the classroom.