Educational Policy in Magdeburg: Recent Developments in March 2026

Educational Policy in Magdeburg: Recent Developments in March 2026

Educational policy is a central topic in Magdeburg, of great importance to both parents and students. In March 2026, several decisions were made that affect the daily lives of many families and schools. Particularly noteworthy are the changes to the student transportation ordinance, the discussions on school route safety, and the equal treatment of students at free schools.

Reform of the Student Transportation Ordinance

In March 2026, the Second Amendment to the Ordinance on Student Transportation of the State Capital Magdeburg was adopted. This reform was necessary to reflect the new legal provisions of the Saxony-Anhalt School Act (SchulG LSA), which have been in effect since July 15, 2025.

The most important changes include:

• Introduction of the "Student Ticket Magdeburg" (ST MD): This ticket will be used as a central transportation instrument starting from the school year 2023/24. It is available both as a free ticket and as a 9-Euro ticket and is valid for one school year (August 1 to July 31). It can be used outside school hours, on weekends, and during holidays.

• New orientation of reimbursement regulations: The reimbursement of travel costs will be calculated at a flat rate of 0.20 euros per occupied kilometer driven, with a cap at the cost of a discounted monthly pass from the Magdeburg Public Transport Company (MVB). This regulation is intended to reduce administrative burden and create transparency.

• Equal treatment of students at free schools: A key change concerns the regulation for schools operated by independent providers. The Free Waldorf Schools and other free schools will now have the same transportation entitlements as state schools, provided the distance to the school actually attended is at least 3 kilometers. This regulation aims to strengthen school choice and prevent discrimination.

These reforms have not only legal but also practical implications. The simplified regulations and clear deadlines (e.g., submission of reimbursement applications by September 30) are intended to ease the daily lives of parents and students.

School Route Safety: Agnetenstraße and Demand-Controlled Traffic Lights

Another central topic was school route safety in the Agnetenstraße, especially near the International Foundation Gymnasium (ISG). After the closure of the Gareisstraße on October 15, 2025, traffic volume in the Agnetenstraße increased significantly, endangering the safety of the school route.

The city has decided on the following measures:

• Introduction of a demand-controlled traffic light: A demand-controlled traffic light will be installed at Agnetenstraße, corner Gröperstraße (east side), to enable safe pedestrian crossings. This light will supplement existing but unused traffic signal systems and avoid unnecessary disruption to traffic flow.

• Temporary measures: Until the demand-controlled traffic light is finally implemented, temporary measures such as speed limits, signage, or school crossing guards will be put in place. The city has also announced an evaluation after the completion of the construction work in the Gareisstraße to determine whether a permanent pedestrian crossing is appropriate.

The debate on school route safety in the Agnetenstraße has shown that the safety of students must be prioritized not only legally but also practically. The decision to introduce a demand-controlled traffic light is a step in the right direction.

Equal Treatment and Free Schools

Another focus was on the equal treatment of students at free schools, particularly at Free Waldorf Schools. The amendment to the ordinance ensured that the transportation entitlements of these students are not bound to the provisions of the school law, provided the school they attend is not the nearest one. This is an important signal for the protection of school choice and equality in the education system.

In addition, it was emphasized in the debate that the assignment rule in the school law should not be used as a benchmark for the revocation of transportation entitlements. The goal is to ensure a reasonable and fair application of the student transportation ordinance based on the actual school route.

Outlook and Challenges

The reforms in Magdeburg's educational policy are a milestone for transparency, equality, and safety. They show how city structure can be improved through clear, understandable regulations and practical measures. The introduction of the "Student Ticket Magdeburg" and the adjustment of reimbursement regulations are examples of modern, efficient administration.

Nevertheless, challenges remain, particularly in implementation. The new ordinance must be understood and applied equally by the administration and schools. Moreover, school route safety is a dynamic issue that must respond to changes in the urban environment, especially during construction work or traffic diversions.

Overall, educational policy in Magdeburg is on the right track to place the needs of students and their families at the center.