A shortage of teachers in Marzahn-Hellersdorf: opportunities and challenges!

A shortage of teachers in Marzahn-Hellersdorf: opportunities and challenges!

In Marzahn-Hellersdorf, a divided picture shows: Although the occupied teaching positions in schools have increased significantly, the lack of teachers in the socially challenged areas of the region are still present. The proportion of occupied positions from 80 to 95.7 percent has improved, particularly at primary schools. The Situation has also become significantly better at secondary schools, from 70 to 91.3 percent. At high schools, the occupied job number is even 96.6 percent. Cathrin Braun, head of the district's school supervision, presented these figures on Thursday evening in the town hall. She emphasized that at the moment only "maybe a hundred places" are vacant, which is a progress compared to the previous year.

This positive development is accompanied by a variety of challenges. While the number of students continues to rise and more teachers are asked, it becomes clear that many of the occupied positions are taken by teachers who are not sufficiently trained. It reports that numerous teaching students start teaching during their studies and that more and more career changers are getting into class. These people, who often come from completely different professional fields, are often not equipped with the necessary pedagogical knowledge. Regina Kittler, member of the Left Group in BVV Marzahn-Hellersdorf, expressed concerns that more career changers are now teaching as trained teachers in many schools. This problem will be also illuminated in an article from the Berliner Zeitung .

important differences in the school structures

A striking feature in the district are the high poverty rates that stand out, especially in the cities of Hellersdorf and Marzahn-Nord. The need for additional funding is also particularly high here, which is reflected in the schooling examinations. Cathrin Braun noted that the lack of teachers in the problematic districts is above average. While Mahlsdorf has high demand for teachers, the schools in Hellersdorf and Marzahn-Nord are in the shade.

The challenges on site cannot be overlooked. In these areas, many students of non -German origin language are, which results in serious communication problems and necessary support measures. The experience of teachers shows that the need for special support in these districts is extremely high, while at the same time access to qualified teachers is limited. Directed by the school authorities there is efforts to cover the need, but often the hourly table is shortened, and conveyor lessons are often not sufficiently planned when working in classrooms.

At the same time, there is a feeling among the teachers that the living situation in Marzahn-Hellersdorf has improved. The image of the district is slowly changing, and some school authorities have started to cooperate with housing associations in order to offer teachers an apartment, which makes it easier to find new teachers. The district does not have the most exciting nightlife to offer, but offers a livable environment with calm neighborhoods and affordable apartments.

Overall, a slower but constant progress in the fight against the lack of teachers is shown in Marzahn-Hellersdorf. While some schools in the region still fight enormous challenges, there are also bright spots that give hope for a positive development. The recruitment of teachers and the creation of suitable conditions on site will also play a crucial role in the future.