Education and Public Institutions in Krefeld: Expansion, Funding, and Inclusion in March 2026

Education and Public Institutions: Krefeld's Roadmap for 2026

In March 2026, the city of Krefeld clearly committed to a forward-looking educational policy. With the goal of creating fairness within the education system and promoting greater inclusion, numerous decisions were made in the areas of education and public institutions. These decisions are not only significant for the current school landscape but also for the city's long-term development.

Expansion of Full-Day Schools and Educational Programs

A central point of the March meeting was the implementation of the right to full-day support. Starting with the 2026/27 school year, Krefeld will establish 15 additional full-day groups – a clear response to rising childcare needs and the necessity to offer parents more flexibility. At the same time, the decision was made to establish a new educational program at the Uerdingen Vocational College, strengthening vocational training in the region.

The city is focusing on a close integration between school, work, and social services. By continuing the Regional Educational Center (RBZB) and developing Family-Oriented Primary School Centers, the city aims to address educational disparities early on. The administration has been tasked with examining the financial and staffing needs for these institutions and prioritizing locations.

Funding and Parental Contributions: A Delicate Balance

Funding for childcare services remains a central point of contention. The proposed amendment to the parental contribution ordinance is part of a broader discussion about social justice. A new form of care, the "Shortened Open Full Day," will be integrated into the contribution schedule – with a fee reduced to half the regular rate.

Criticism came from the public, particularly from low-income groups who feel disproportionately burdened. A proposed amendment aiming for a fairer system – with higher exemption thresholds and stronger progressive contributions – was withdrawn but is expected to be reintroduced in the next session. The city has committed to developing a new proposal for the ordinance amendment in the near future.

Inclusion, Integration, and Social Work

Krefeld is increasingly focusing on inclusive education and social integration. School social work is now a fixed part of the budget and is being expanded in cooperation with district youth welfare and youth support services. With over 2,000 people reached through group offerings in 2024, the success is already visible. Topics such as social learning training, parental engagement, and cultural education are in focus.

In youth support services, the case management approach is being strengthened to support young people with special needs – such as those disengaged from school or without a secure future – on an individual basis. The Krefeld Youth Employment Agency (Jba-Kr) works closely with the Employment Agency, the Job Center, and youth social work to support the transition from school to work.

Infrastructure Expansion: Renovation and Digitalization

In addition to political and financial measures, the expansion of physical infrastructure is also a priority. Numerous primary schools, such as Lindenschule and Astrid-Lindgren-Schule, will undergo renovation – with a focus on window replacement, roof and façade rehabilitation, and fire protection measures. The expansion of kitchens and canteens is a recurring project that strengthens full-day schools.

Digitalization is also being advanced: expansion of Wi-Fi, digital access systems, and support through the Municipal Investment Promotion Act (KInvFöG) are part of the planning. In some schools, containers and pavilions are being built as interim solutions until long-term new buildings are realized.

Outlook: What's Coming in the Next Months?

With the Municipal Child and Youth Support Plan 2026–2030 and the planned youth survey in collaboration with Krefeld schools, the city is setting a structured planning framework. At the same time, coordination between youth support services, schools, and social services will be further developed.

The challenge remains to manage financial and staffing pressures without compromising the quality of services. The discussion around parental contributions and social justice shows that political decisions in educational policy often require careful balancing.

Conclusion: Education as the Key to Krefeld's Future

The decisions made in March 2026 show that Krefeld has consciously chosen an educational policy that combines inclusion, justice, and long-term investment in infrastructure. With the expansion of full-day schools, the strengthening of youth support services, and the digitalization of schools, the city is pursuing a sustainable educational expansion that can significantly improve the living conditions of children and young people.