Dispute over freedom of choice: Lemwerder local council debates all-day care

Dispute over freedom of choice: Lemwerder local council debates all-day care

In Lemwerder, the atmosphere in the local council was tense at the last meeting, especially with regard to the proposals for all-day care at the local primary school. The majority of council members voted for the introduction of an open all-day school and a municipal after-school care center, but without giving citizens freedom of choice between the two systems. Starting next school year, first and second graders will attend all-day school, while third and fourth graders will continue to use the after-school care center. These decisions received mixed reactions from those in attendance.

Before the meeting, parents and after-school teachers mobilized and hung a garland with over 1,600 signatures in the meeting room, calling for freedom of choice. These signatories came not only from Lemwerder, but also from cities such as Oyten, Vlotho and Mannheim. Bianka Ludwig from the NFL underlined the importance of these voices and the urgency of the issue, while Viktoria Heller from the SPD read out a statement that referred to the state politicians' support for all-day schools.

Developments and concerns

The discussions in the local council were sometimes heated, which was reflected in strong applause for speakers who contradicted the majority opinion. It was clear among the fire department sponsors that all council members present agreed that as many children as possible should be offered care and the after-school care center should be maintained, but there were concerns about the seriousness of the various positions.

The municipal administration had carried out a survey on all-day care, in which only 231 of the 425 questionnaires sent out were returned. Currently, 85 children look after their parents in the afternoon, 27 are supported by relatives or day carers, and 63 attend after-school care. The evaluation showed that 123 children wanted care five days a week, while 139 parents advocated an open all-day school.

The after-school teacher Manfred Klindt expressed concerns about the possible extension of working hours in the after-school care center, since 91% of parents have no need for care beyond 4 p.m. Former mayor Regina Neuke demanded a solution from the current mayor Christina Winkelmann. Another meeting on all-day school is already planned for November 27th, and it will be interesting to see whether the controversial points will be examined again there.

A look outside the box

While the discussions in Lemwerder are causing a stir, other places are managing to make life more colorful in their own way. For example in Kuala Lumpur, where pizza culture is booming. Lovers of Italian cuisine will find numerous recommended pizzerias in the city that are characterized by their versatility. From pork-free to non-halal, there is something to suit every taste.

Here is a small selection of the best pizza places that pizza lovers should definitely try:

• Pizza Mansion: Beliebte Pizzen: Carbonara und Truffle Mac & Cheese
• Proof Pizza + Wine: Ausgezeichnet mit ’50 Top Pizza In Asia-Pacific 2024′
• Natalina Italian Kitchen: Besonders für Truffle Mushroom und Pizza Quattro Formaggi bekannt

For those looking for full service, Bryan, Texas has it Holiday Inn Express & Suites. It offers modern comforts, free parking and a 24-hour fitness center, making it the ideal location for business trips or weekend getaways.

In various regions of Europe and the world, it is clear that there are many approaches to improving and enriching life. In Lemwerder it remains to be hoped that the discussions about all-day care will find a solution that is acceptable for all families.