Cottbus Implements Measures to Address Rising School Violence After Parental Concerns

Authorities in Cottbus are intensifying efforts to curb violence in local schools following a series of incidents and heightened concerns from parents. The move comes after a collective communication from parents at a primary school in the city highlighted persistent issues related to student safety, fear, and cultural integration challenges.

In response, city officials are considering more decisive interventions, including the removal of persistently violent students from mainstream classrooms. This approach aims to ensure a safer learning environment for the broader student body. According to statements from Cottbus leadership, a small group of students has been repeatedly identified for disregarding school regulations and using physical aggression to resolve conflicts.

Parents have reported multiple cases where students suffered injuries such as bruises and falls, some requiring medical attention. There is also a noted increase in anxiety among students, with some expressing reluctance to attend school or travel specific routes due to fear of confrontation. The parental communication also cited language barriers arising from a comparatively high proportion of students with migration backgrounds, which can complicate both classroom instruction and conflict resolution.

City officials acknowledge the challenges posed by these circumstances. The mayor has previously announced the introduction of security personnel at certain schools and has advocated for policies that would prevent the concentration of students lacking sufficient German language skills in individual institutions. These measures are designed to promote better integration and reduce the risk of misunderstandings that could escalate into violence.

The issue of violence in schools is addressed through established protocols set by the state education ministry. These guidelines, outlined in official circulars, stipulate how incidents should be managed to maintain a safe and supportive educational environment. The process involves prompt recognition of incidents, appropriate intervention, and support for affected students and staff.

Recent statistics indicate that at this particular Cottbus primary school, over 40 percent of students have a migration background, compared to a state-wide average of approximately 11 percent at the beginning of the 2025/2026 academic year. The educational authorities emphasize that while some incidents have involved students with migration backgrounds, it is not accurate to attribute broader trends in school violence solely to this demographic.

Alternative reporting mechanisms have been established by some political groups, aiming to track violent incidents in schools. However, educational authorities have cautioned that such platforms may not provide age-appropriate or pedagogically sound responses and could lack the necessary support for those involved.

Efforts continue to focus on ensuring that all students can learn in a secure and inclusive environment. Collaboration between parents, educators, and authorities remains central to identifying effective strategies for addressing school violence and fostering mutual respect among students from diverse backgrounds.