A debate is brewing among German teacher associations regarding the scheduling of summer vacation dates. Several groups are advocating for a reassessment of the current system, citing both financial and logistical concerns.
Andreas Bartsch, President of the North Rhine-Westphalia Teacher Association, highlighted the appeal of travel during shoulder seasons like September and the days surrounding Pentecost, noting their affordability. He criticized the current political discussions surrounding summer vacation, suggesting a more considered, collaborative approach within the Standing Conference of Ministers of Education and Culture (KMK) rather than unilateral proposals from individual states.
Martina Scherer, head of the Baden-Württemberg Teacher Association, echoed the call for dialogue, suggesting a review of various scheduling options and their potential benefits in the coming years.
Concerns have also been raised from Thuringia, where Tim Reukauf, head of the Thuringia Teacher Association, pointed to the shortened school year and the pressure on educators to complete the curriculum, advocating for a potential nationwide, unified approach. He drew a parallel to the consistent timing of Easter vacations across all German states.
However, Stefan Düll, President of the German Teacher Association and headmaster of a Gymnasium in Bavaria, believes the issue is overly emotional and that the current system is satisfactory. He acknowledged that decisions around summer vacation dates are made years in advance by the KMK and that any changes would not be implemented before 2031.
