Six schools face closure in Drammen, Norway, amid financial crisis and public protests

Six schools in Drammen, Norway, are at risk of closure as part of efforts to address the municipality’s financial crisis, sparking significant public protests in recent weeks. The Drammen Labour Party officially opposed the school shutdowns, stating that closing schools contradicts their vision for the city as an appealing place to live. Party leader Tonje Enersen highlighted the importance of considering children’s welfare, noting an increase in mental health issues among youth, alongside rising youth crime and loneliness.

The party’s unanimous executive committee has argued that there is insufficient evidence to justify immediate changes to the school structure. They contend that the adverse impacts on children, parents, and communities far outweigh any potential economic benefits from the proposed closures.

Enersen emphasized the need for alternative measures to achieve necessary savings without dismantling local communities. The party is seeking collaboration with other political factions to develop sustainable solutions that could gain majority support in the municipal council. She expressed concern that shutting down neighborhood schools would worsen existing issues rather than provide effective solutions.

The potential school closures follow a proposal presented to the municipality’s politicians two weeks ago, listing the following schools for consideration: Steinberg, Rødskog, Vestbygda, Danvik, Skoger, and Tangen. The motivation behind these closures is a projected decline in student population, with forecasts anticipating around 1,200 fewer schoolchildren in Drammen by 2036. A final decision on the matter will be made in February next year.