Summer school becomes mandatory – fines of up to 1000 euros for violators!
Starting from the summer of 2026, summer school will become mandatory for about 49,000 children facing difficulties with the German language, in a move aimed at improving language skills among students who face challenges in their education. These measures were officially approved by the cabinet earlier this week. The summer school program was previously voluntary to support students with learning difficulties, but it will now become an essential part of the education system.
The summer school initiative was originally introduced in 2020 to support children during the COVID-19 pandemic, and since then it has been expanded to include students with special needs or those with learning disabilities. By 2026, the program is expected to cover 49,000 students, representing a significant expansion.
For those who are absent, there will be strict penalties. Absence will be considered a violation of the mandatory school attendance requirement, which may result in an administrative fine of up to 1,000 euros. This is designed to ensure that students do not miss the opportunity to improve their language skills. Educational authorities will also manage logistics, including determining the locations of lessons and organizing transportation for students.
In addition to students, teachers will also face new obligations. The increase in the number of students needing support will significantly contribute to strengthening the workforce. To meet this need, the government plans to hire active teachers, in addition to retired teachers and those specialized in teaching German as a second language. If the number of volunteers is insufficient, the Ministry of Education, led by Fedriker, will take additional measures to ensure the availability of teachers.
The decision to make summer school mandatory has sparked significant controversy. While it is seen as a necessary step to improve language proficiency and ensure that students are on the right academic track, critics argue that it places a heavy burden on both students and teachers. However, the government's stance is clear: ensuring that every child has the necessary language skills for success is crucial, and this mandatory program is a step in the right direction.