Family from Graubünden has to pay record -breaking school penalty!

Family from Graubünden has to pay record -breaking school penalty!

A sensational case from the canton of Graubünden is currently causing discussions about compulsory schooling and fine in Switzerland. Amina Ghulam from Maienfeld received a sensitive fine because of the absence of her children from the school on the last regular class day before the summer holidays in 2024. The mother traveled abroad with her four children and was asked to pay for it. The amount of the original sentence was CHF 500 (approx. 540 euros) per child, which totaled a record penalty of CHF 2000 (approx. 2163 euros).

ghulam objected to the decision of the fine, but this was initially rejected. While the cantonal authorities confirmed the violation of the elementary school law, they considered the original punishment to be disproportionate. This finally led to a reduction in the fine to 100 francs (approx. 108 euros) per child, so that Ghulam ultimately had to pay CHF 400 (approx. 430 euros). The mother was shocked by the high original punishment and expressed the feeling of being treated unfairly.

Different fine practice and demands for uniformity

This incident raises questions about uniformity in fines practice. Beat Schwendimann from the umbrella organization of the teachers criticized the different approaches of the Swiss cantons in such affairs. He called for a nationwide standardization of the regulations in dealing with school absences and advocated a constructive dialogue before financial sanctions are imposed.

For parents and students, compulsory schooling is an important responsibility. In the handout on school absenteeism, it is currently discussing how the use of absenteeism can be improved. The regulations vary greatly, and the current incidents confirm the demand for a nationwide clarification and harmonization of the legal provisions in the field of school absenteeism.

For more information on school absenteeism in Switzerland, you will find detailed explanations in the corresponding Hand through .