Education resumes following the break in North Rhine-Westphalia schools
In North Rhine-Westphalia, students are gearing up for the start of the new school year on August 27, 2022, following a summer break. As they return to class, they will be faced with new academic challenges in subjects like Math and German, as well as other subjects.
Besides the usual curriculum, there are several pressing issues that have been brought to light by NRW's Minister of Education, Dorothee Feller. One of these topics is the digitalization of schools, a viewpoint that has been shared by bestselling author and neuroscientist, Manfred Spitzer. Spitzer has expressed concerns about the early access children have to smartphones and tablets, criticizing the potential negative impact on their development.
Another issue that Feller has addressed is the ongoing concern of 'parent taxis', where parents drive their children to school, leading to chaotic and often dangerous situations around schools. This issue is expected to come back into focus with the start of the 2025/26 school year.
However, there is a positive development on the horizon. From the 2026/27 school year, CPR training will become mandatory for students in grades 7 to 9 in all secondary schools in North Rhine-Westphalia. This training will teach students the simple "Check - Call - Compress" method to save a life in an emergency. Although the exact date for the implementation of this training is yet to be announced, it is part of a broader trend in Germany where some states have introduced or are moving towards mandatory CPR teaching in secondary schools.
Feller has also discussed the topics of AI and mobile phone bans in schools, indicating a focus on creating a balanced learning environment that promotes academic success without compromising the well-being of students.
Alongside the challenges, students in North Rhine-Westphalia can look forward to reuniting with friends, participating in exciting projects, and sharing ideas in the classroom. The new school year promises to be an interesting and enriching time for all.
For the most current and authoritative information, it is advisable to keep an eye on official government or education ministry announcements for North Rhine-Westphalia.
In light of the upcoming school year, the Minister of Education, Dorothee Feller, has emphasized the importance of creating a balanced learning environment that prioritizes both academic success and student well-being. This includes addressing issues like AI and mobile phone usage in education, as well as implementing mandatory CPR training for students in grades 7 to 9 from the 2026/27 school year, to promote service and self-development through life-saving skills.
