G9 Initiative Tops 100,000 Supporters in Baden-Württemberg
The push for a nationwide return to the nine-year Gymnasium (G9) has gained immense support, with over 106,950 votes collected in less than a year. Incredibly, this popular petition has garnered more approval than any other in Baden-Württemberg's history.
CDU education policy spokesperson, Alexander Becker, commended the initiative, noting its impressive surpassing of the legislature's high hurdle for popular petitions. Becker believes that offering both G8 and G9 could deliver "qualitative added value."
The Philologists' Association marked this as a significant drumbeat in Baden-Württemberg's education and state policy. Parents collected signatures from 0.5% of eligible voters in a year to spark debate on the issue in the state parliament.
DPA reports that the G9 initiative has sparked interest in the education sector, leading many to advocate for a parallel offering of both G8 and G9.
However, the transition to G9 may complicate existing educational systems. The gain in support for the G9 initiative prompts the need for careful consideration. The state government expressed its openness to a G9 return in mid-June, deciding to hold a citizens' forum, where randomly selected citizens will advise politicians.
Laying the Foundations for G9
With the majority of citizens excited about the transformation, the Kultusministerium (Ministry of Education) has laid out details for the transition starting in the 2025/26 academic year. Significant changes include a more binding Grundschulempfehlung (primary school recommendation) and adjustments to the curriculum and exams.
Public Controversy
Discontent looms, with parents and educators voicing concerns. For instance, music teachers oppose the reduced music education in the updated G9 curriculum, while parents worry about the impact on other types of schools like Real- and Werkrealschulen.
The Innenministerium (Interior Ministry) even rejected a petition to reintroduce a broader version of the nine-year Gymnasium due to constitutional issues.
Impact on Other Educational Systems
The proposed transition may affect Real- and Werkrealschulen, causing potential changes in their curriculum and student flow. Parents have expressed concerns regarding the implications for their children and worry about the influence on the dual education system, which combines theoretical education with practical training.
The New Curriculum and Testing
Notably, the reform aims to strengthen media and digital competency by making media education a mandatory subject across all school types. Additionally, plans involve introducing language tests for all children aged three and older, requiring compulsory daycare attendance if children lack adequate speaking skills.
The G9 initiative remains a contentious issue, with various challenges and criticisms to address. Regardless, its considerable success in garnering support has proven its considerable impact on the Baden-Württemberg educational landscape.
