Bremerhaven: Inclusion Advisory Board fights against cancellation of school transport!

Bremerhaven: Inclusion Advisory Board fights against cancellation of school transport!

In Bremerhaven, a decision by the head of the school department, Hauke ​​Hilz (FDP), is causing heated discussions. At the end of the school year, the city plans to stop providing transportation for mentally disabled children. According to butenunbinnen.de, the decision has already been made by the magistrate and the city council. This is happening as part of drastic austerity measures that are necessary due to an impending budget deficit of up to 80 million euros.

The Inclusion Advisory Board has sharply criticized the decision and is calling for its immediate withdrawal. A letter points out that the driving service is a voluntary service, the elimination of which was decided before the meetings of the two committees. This has caused discontent among many parents and professionals as the decision was made without prior consultation.

Background to inclusion

The discussion about canceling the transport service fits into the broader debate about inclusion in schools. As a study by Aktion Mensch shows, there are still major hurdles when it comes to school inclusion. The challenge begins with the transitions between educational levels and is exacerbated by inadequate framework conditions such as the qualifications of teachers and financial deficits.

Christina Marx, head of education at Aktion Mensch, emphasizes how important it is to reduce the skepticism of parents and educators. Consumers who have already had experience with inclusion are mostly satisfied. It is important to recognize and promote the opportunities offered by shared education for the development of socially competent personalities.

The consequences for affected families

Parents who rely on the transport service could find themselves in great difficulty as a result of the cancellation. The loss of this service not only means an additional stress factor, but could also have negative effects on the school integration of the affected children. The city of Bremerhaven is faced with the challenge of finding a way that is both financially viable and takes into account the needs of the affected families.

However, in times when the budget situation is tight, difficult decisions often have to be made. Nevertheless, it remains to be hoped that the voice of the inclusion advisory board and the affected families will be heard in order to find solutions that continue to ensure the inclusion and participation of children with disabilities.

Further information about the inclusion advisory board in Bremerhaven can be found at bremerhaven.de.