Criticism of the school move: Parents and teachers demand more say!

Criticism of the school move: Parents and teachers demand more say!

The Hernals Integrative School in Vienna, which previously looked after 40 percent of its students with language development disorders, is facing a serious change: the school has to move to make space for the Hernals special school. This is specifically aimed at physically disabled children. Education Director Elisabeth Fuchs emphasizes that the move results from increased demand for both institutions. However, critics such as Marcella Feichtinger, director of the learning workshop, see this as not just a resettlement, but rather the destruction of a functioning, inclusive system. Parents' association chairman Robert Kases expresses concern about the lack of involvement of those affected in the decision-making processes. Fuchs understands the reactions and assured that those affected should be involved, which she recently confirmed in a letter to the parents' association ORF Vienna reported.

Challenges of inclusion in educational institutions

Implementing inclusion in daycare centers is a complex task that raises many questions, especially when it comes to children with special needs. Henning Rosenkötter explains that inclusion means equal access to education for all children, regardless of their individual abilities or background. The approach requires professionals to recognize the diversity of children and to do justice to each child. This requires differentiated and individualized pedagogical work. The challenge is to create space and support structures that enable sustainable participation for all children, as in the publication Children's education is explained.

In order to successfully design inclusion, professionals must not only continually question their academic training, but also reflect on their biographical backgrounds and possible prejudices. The essence is to recognize the communicative and social needs of children in order to promote a functioning and respectful community. A crucial step is close collaboration between institutions and parents to ensure mutual support and understanding. This cooperative approach is necessary so that children with different abilities can participate equally in educational processes while their individuality and personal strengths are valued.