Tingvoll school closure planned amid declining student enrollment in Møre og Romsdal

The decision to close schools in Tingvoll is part of efforts to adapt to a decline in student enrollment projected for the region. Currently housing 78 students, many of whom commute to Tingvoll, officials believe they can offer alternatives at other schools.

During a recent presentation of the 2025 budget and financial plan for the next four years, the regional director highlighted the tight budget, with numerous proposed cuts amidst declining student numbers. Closing the Tingvoll school could save 10 million kroner, with an anticipated total decline of 2,000 students over the next 15 years in Møre og Romsdal. Other proposals include restructuring the Stranda secondary school as a branch of Sykkylven.

The director noted this situation is merely a precursor to further necessary measures in the coming years, stating, “We understand that this decline implies we need to reduce one school in each of our four regions to provide a quality education for the remaining students.”

The proposal to close schools has sparked controversy. In Innlandet county, plans to close two schools have stirred significant backlash, and reactions to the Tingvoll closure are similarly swift. A local politician from the Centre Party voiced strong opposition, emphasizing the school’s high satisfaction and completion rates. She argued that closure would disrupt the lives of students and exacerbate challenges for youth in rural areas.

Møre og Romsdal county currently faces serious financial strain, with the largest cuts proposed for transportation, impacting ferry and express boat services. The county anticipates a budget deficit of approximately 70 million kroner for 2024 and is implementing significant staff reductions, especially among teachers, in response to the economic situation. Policymakers are meeting in December to finalize decisions on these budgetary challenges.