Saint Konrad School to Shut Down in August
In the heart of the city, the Reliable Primary School (VGS) at St. Konrad School is facing a potential discontinuation, sparking concerns among parents and educators. Julia Schmitz, a VGS parent spokeswoman, argues against the Open Extended Day School (OGS) due to its high cost and perceived unnecessary need.
The financial predicament of both the VGS and OGS is such that the administration costs cannot be covered by the care allowance of the state of NRW. This has led to a deteriorating situation for both care offers, with each operating at a loss for at least a year. Jens Röskens, SkF managing director, and Semi Verdinogelou, a part-time nurse, have also voiced their concerns about the cost difference between the two schools.
Parents like Semi Verdinogelou, who currently pay around 100 euros for the VGS, would have to shell out around 300 euros for the OGS. This financial burden is a significant concern for many parents, including Julia Schmitz, who would have to reduce her working hours in a daycare centre if she were to take care of her child herself, resulting in financial losses.
The city is being asked for help to ensure the continuation of the VGS. Jascha Huschauer, spokesman for school politics of the SPD fraction, has submitted an application to the school committee to make the VGS possible. The administration will discuss the matter with the carrier shortly.
Lisa Schmitz's child attends the third grade of St. Konrad School and has sports or heritage language lessons at 2:00 PM. For parents like Lisa, the VGS provides a flexible alternative, offering care from 8:00 AM to at least 1:00 PM. However, the OGS provides care up to 3:00 PM, and lunch must be booked for the OGS, but not for the VGS.
The situation is causing anxiety for parents like Rosi Schmidt, whose son has concentration difficulties and would not benefit from a homework support in school. The decision on the implementation of an afternoon care lies with the carriers in coordination with the school.
The town hall is expected to work quickly to provide planning security for the affected parents. A regulation for the collection of parental contributions is on the agenda of the school committee on February 27th. The future of the VGS remains uncertain, but the community is hopeful that a solution can be found to ensure the continuation of this important care offer.
Economic and social policy discussions may arise concerning the future of Reliable Primary School (VGS) and Open Extended Day School (OGS), given their financial predicament and the impact on education-and-self-development of children. Jens Röskens, Semi Verdinogelou, and Julia Schmitz, among other parents, are advocating for a more affordable solution due to the significant financial burden imposed by the high cost of OGS.
