After elementary school, the decision for what type of school to attend in Saxony-Anhalt is typically made by parents. However, come 2024/25, a shift is happening. If a fourth-grader fails to receive a recommendation for grammar school but their parents desire this for them, tests will be required. These exams will include both oral and written assessments in German and mathematics.
The Left Party criticizes this as an unnecessary burden for educators, parents, and students alike. The Ministry of Education, in response, asserts that the purpose of these tests is to ensure that children who meet the criteria qualify for grammar school.
From 2024/25, children whose parents' wishes diverge from the elementary school's recommendation will face a written test at their current school and an oral one at a nearby grammar school. Ultimately, the decision remains with the parents or guardians.
Furthermore, starting from the third grade, parents' meetings on school choice will be offered. These encounters will include discussions about requirements, followed by individualized advice during learning development meetings in the second semester.
In essence, while parents continue to rule the school choice process in Saxony-Anhalt, changes loom on the horizon. After 2024/25, a test will be compulsory for those not recommended for grammar school, but whose parents have other plans. Additionally, parents' meetings relevant to school choice will become available to third-graders, followed by personalized advice.
