Minister Wiederkehr on heat and education: Is the heat really our biggest problem?

Austrian Education Minister Christoph Wiederkehr, known for his calm demeanor, recently appeared on the television program "ZiB 2" to discuss current issues in the education sector. The interview, moderated by Margit Laufer, touched upon reforms affecting primary school teachers and the ongoing challenge of rising temperatures in schools.

Initially, Laufer inquired about the practical implications of announced reforms, specifically asking if primary school teachers in different regions would earn the same salary. Wiederkehr confirmed that salary equalization is already in place and explained how the reforms would simplify decisions regarding school staffing needs, such as balancing the hiring of teachers versus social workers. He also addressed the expansion of afternoon care programs, indicating that the changes would facilitate this.

The conversation then shifted to the recent warm weather, with questions focusing on potential "heat days" for students and the possibility of advancing summer holidays. Wiederkehr acknowledged the heat as a concern, stating that schools need investment in cooling, ventilation, and shading. However, he expressed no support for shortening summer holidays, as it is not part of the government's program. Regarding "heat days," he indicated that the matter would be discussed at an upcoming "heat summit," but stressed that "supervision must continue" as the problem cannot be delegated to families. He suggested that schools should have more flexibility in daily scheduling.