School Construction Initiative, Full-Day Programs, and More: How Düsseldorf Strengthens Education in February 2026

Education in Motion: Düsseldorf's February 2026

Education is a key component for a livable city. In February 2026, Düsseldorf set new impulses in educational policy with a variety of decisions, projects, and consultations. From the expansion of a high school to the introduction of new educational programs and the assurance of full-day care – the city proves that it is not neglecting its educational responsibilities but actively advancing them.

Gymnasium Expansion: Leibniz-Montessori-Gymnasium Expands to Four Classes

One of the largest projects initiated in February 2026 was the expansion of the Leibniz-Montessori-Gymnasium to four classes. This measure is part of the comprehensive School Construction Initiative Düsseldorf, which responds to the long-term need for classroom space and modern learning environments.

With a total cost of 26.86 million euros (including follow-up costs), the project is financially ambitious. The expansion includes a new building with a gymnasium and science and technology rooms, a fire safety renovation of the existing structure, the conversion of existing rooms, and the redesign of the schoolyard.

Special attention was paid to sustainability: The new building will be equipped with photovoltaic systems and intensive green roof coverage, and is planned for a DGNB Gold Certification. Additionally, the gymnasium will be available for non-school uses, such as sports clubs.

The coordination with the relevant committees – including the district council, building committee, and school committee – was intensive. The expansion is planned for the 2029/2030 school year, with the branch location at Gneisenaustraße 60 already being used as a supplement since 2023/2024.

Full-Day Schools Become Concrete: New Care Concept from 2026/27

With the introduction of the new full-day school care concept for primary education starting in the 2026/27 school year, Düsseldorf is focusing on modular care hours until 2, 3, or 4 p.m. This is a response to the national legal entitlement to full-day care, which comes into effect for the 2026/27 school year.

Düsseldorf has already achieved a care coverage rate of 85%. Through the new concept, more children will be covered, with the care until 3 p.m. being a particularly notable new option.

The infrastructure has already been prepared: Potential analyses, room programs, and digital registration procedures are completed. The funding is provided via a parental contribution model with a maximum contribution of 180 euros per month.

Another important element is quality assurance. A quality assurance committee will be established, and quality dialogues will take place between schools and youth welfare providers.

Budget Consultations and New Educational Programs: School as a Field for the Future

In addition to investments in buildings and care systems, budget consultations and the establishment of new educational programs were also in focus. For example, a new educational program at the Walter-Eucken-Vocational College was approved, targeting graduates of the International Support Classes.

Another highlight was the increase in class size at the Max-Weber-Vocational College in the field of Vocational High School for Administration and Judicial Services from two to three classes. Since student numbers exceeded the approved maximum, the expansion was necessary.

In addition, a budget draft for 2026 for the Office for Schools and Education was discussed, aiming at the long-term funding of educational measures.

Conclusion: Education as an Investment in the Future

February 2026 shows how committed Düsseldorf is in educational policy. From the gymnasium expansion to the full-day school and new educational programs – the city is investing in quality, sustainability, and future-readiness. These measures not only contribute to educational quality, but also to social stability and inclusion in the city.

Future challenges, such as the costs for free lunch or the funding of holiday programs, remain. However, with the Masterplan Schools 2.0, the NRW Start Opportunities Program, and the active collaboration with committees and parents, Düsseldorf has created a strong foundation for future educational policy.