Gevelsberg: Education and Culture in Focus – What the Committee for Schools, Culture, Sports, and Leisure Decided in February 2026

Education and Culture in Gevelsberg: What Was Decided in February 2026

The city of Gevelsberg is intensifying its focus on the topics of education, culture, and sports this year. In February 2026, the decisive meeting of the Committee for Schools, Culture, Sports, and Leisure took place, during which important plans and decisions were discussed and adopted. Particular attention was given to the draft 2026 budget, which regulates the funding for schools, cultural projects, and sports facilities.

Draft Budget 2026: School Operations and Cultural Support

As part of the 2026 budget planning process, the financial framework for Department F2.2 (school operations, culture, sports, and leisure) was established. The draft budget included funds for the renovation of the secondary school, the digital equipment of schools, and cultural support. Particular note should be made of the planned support from the state of North Rhine-Westphalia under the "Culture and School" program. In 2026, three projects were successfully funded: "Art in Architecture – Corridor Design," "Kling-Klang-Klong Orchestra," and "We Are Diversity!"

These projects highlight how Gevelsberg promotes cultural exchange between schools and artists. The city contributes its own share of 840 euros per project, underscoring the need for external funding. Additionally, the cultural support grant for the "Kulturrucksack NRW" was set at 7,758 euros for 2026, based on the population statistics for the target group of 10–14-year-olds.

Digital Education: Use of iPads in Schools

Another focal point was the digitalization of the city's schools. The iPads used in all schools for instruction have now become an integral part of everyday education. They are particularly used in the subjects of German, mathematics, and general studies, and serve the purposes of research, presentations, project work, and individual support. Teacher devices also support lesson preparation and internal school communication.

Schools evaluate the technical support as very reliable. Nevertheless, there is a need for further development in the areas of WLAN infrastructure, software availability, and charging and storage solutions. In addition, discussions are underway for the Digital Pact 2.0, which could provide additional funding for future planning.

Culture in the City: From Cultural Explorers to the Cultural Backpack

The committee also discussed the cultural development in Gevelsberg. The "Kulturstrolche" project, offered in primary schools, will continue to be supported by the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. In 2025, 45 classes participated, and new applications were submitted for 2026 as well. The projects include author readings, museum visits, and theater workshops that strengthen the cultural education of children.

Another highlight is the "Kulturrucksack," which offers courses for children and young people aged 10 to 14. At the Gevelsberg City Library, courses such as "Manga Magic" and "Magical Creative Workshop Harry Potter" took place. Additionally, creative courses were offered at the VHS Ennepe-Ruhr-Süd, including "Action Painting" and "Cajón Drum Building."

Sports and Leisure: Facility Schedules and Inclusive Offers

In addition to education and culture, sports activities were also in the spotlight. The committee reviewed the schedules for the city's sports facilities. The use of the facilities follows a clear order: mornings are reserved for schools, and afternoons are for non-school groups until 10 p.m. The gymnasiums of the secondary school and the West Hall are particularly busy.

Another important project is the inclusive swimming course, which was first offered after the summer holidays of 2025. In cooperation with the Gevelsberg Swimming Club, four children participated in a course funded by the proceeds of a sports tournament. In addition, events such as the Gevelsberg Stadium Run with 715 participants and a donation to a local association took place.

Outlook: Cultural Development Planning and Future Visions

The administration has begun assessing the current cultural offerings in Gevelsberg. Event venues, open-air areas, and culturally active associations are being mapped to identify strengths and development potential. Areas for action in the future include strengthening cooperation, developing new cultural formats, and further developing public space art.

To summarize: Gevelsberg is actively investing in education, culture, and sports. With a clear budget, digital support, and creative projects, the city is setting impulses for the future of its schools, cultural institutions, and sports facilities.