Bilingual classes in Carinthia: rescue secured by state funds!

Bilingual classes in Carinthia: rescue secured by state funds!

Bilingual teaching in Carinthian elementary schools is on the verge of a turning point! Initially it was said that the bilingual classes in the Khevenhüllerschule in Villach and the Körnerschule in Klagenfurt were in danger due to a drastic savings package from the state and federal government. Despite the initial uncertainty, there is now clear progress: Education officer Daniel Fellner (SPÖ) announced that funding from the state has been secured so that the classes can continue in the coming school year ORF reports.

In the name of planning security, it is important for parents and educational institutions to know that a bilingual first class can be offered at both schools for the 2025/2026 school year. This is guaranteed by financial support from the state amounting to around 250,000 euros. Fellner emphasized the importance of multilingualism for future generations and promised to strive for a longer, nationwide solution once a new federal government is established. There was already a strong movement from parents who mobilized with over 880 signatures against the suspension of bilingual education 5min.at reported.

Despite the positive outlook, uncertainty remains as to where future funding will come from. Bilingual education was originally an experiment financed by joint state and federal funds. However, the current cuts represent a challenge that poses big questions for both schools and parents. The agreement to continue bilingual classes is therefore an important step for education in Carinthia.