Lolland Kommune has proposed closing two village schools and merging two others, and a school researcher warns the plan is a risky move because it is driven by savings rather than educational goals.
DR reports that the two schools set to close after this school year are Østofte Landsbyordning and Søllested Landsbyordning. Two schools in the town of Nakskov would be merged. The municipality announced the proposals last week as part of a savings plan of around 200 million kroner.
The first day of school at Østofte Landsbyordning went ahead with a red carpet, balloons and flags. The school has 117 pupils and lies a few kilometers northwest of Maribo. Board chair and parent Nicolle Kirkegaard-Olsen told DR that the situation is very difficult right now.
Esben Nielsen is principal of both schools facing closure. According to DR, he described a subdued mood compared with previous years, while staff still wanted the day to be a celebration. He said he understands the need to save money, but believes the municipality should examine alternatives to closures.
Expert warns of pedagogical risks
Andreas Rasch-Christensen, research director at VIA University College, told DR that moving from seven to four municipal schools is a risky manoeuvre. He said school mergers always bring uncertainty for pupils and parents. As noted by the researcher, there is also a risk that some parents choose a different school.
Mayor Marie-Louise Brehm Nielsen of the local list Din Stemme rejects the concern that the plan will drive families out of the public school system. Per DR, figures from Danmarks Statistik show that around one in three children in Lolland Kommune already attend a private school. The mayor said the municipal offer has not been good enough for a long time.
The school proposals are part of a wider austerity package. DR reports in a separate article that Lolland Kommune faces a shortfall of more than 500 million kroner for 2027 and is seeking state support of about 300 million kroner. Politiken reported that sports halls and daycare facilities are also listed for closure in the plan.
Folketidende reported that the savings catalog was presented on Wednesday and is structured as seven budget packages. According to the same report, the hearing period runs until September 15, with final adoption due on October 8. Lolland Kommune’s budget 2027 pages set out the same consultation process and timetable.
In a separate report, Folketidende cited the chair of the municipal school committee saying that nothing has been decided yet. The proposals remain possible adjustments rather than political decisions. DR notes that the budget package is currently in hearing and will be settled later this year.
