Six schools in Drammen face potential closures amid financial crisis

Six schools in Drammen are on a list of potential closures aimed at addressing the municipality’s critical financial situation. This proposal has sparked significant protests over recent weeks.

The Drammen Labour Party announced last night its opposition to any school closures in the municipality. “Closing schools goes against our vision for Drammen, as a place that should be attractive to live in,” said party leader Tonje Enersen.

The party’s board is unanimous in its view that there has been insufficient evidence to justify any immediate changes to the school structure. They argue the adverse effects on children, parents, and the community outweigh any financial benefits.

There is considerable concern surrounding potential school closures. Enersen emphasized, “In this matter, our primary focus is on the welfare of children. In a time when more young people are struggling with mental health issues, facing youth crime and loneliness, it is not the right approach to dismantle local communities and create further insecurity.”

The Labour Party is actively working to identify alternative measures for necessary budget cuts and seeks collaboration with other parties to find sustainable solutions that can gain a majority in the council. “We need to focus on preventive measures, and closing neighborhood schools does the opposite. Shutting down schools and communities takes Drammen in the completely wrong direction,” added Enersen.

Politicians were presented with a list of proposed closures two weeks ago, including the following schools: Steinberg, Rødskog, Vestbygda, Danvik, Skoger, and Tangen. The rationale for considering these closures stems from a projected decrease in the student population in Drammen, with estimates indicating about 1,200 fewer schoolchildren by 2036. A final decision is expected in February next year.