More Staff Planned for School Psychology
Following the shooting at BORG Dreierschützengasse in Graz, the government has announced additional measures for mental health in schools, some of which are to be decided in the Council of Ministers on Wednesday. According to Minister of Education Christoph Wiederkehr (NEOS), plans include not only more staff for school psychology and school social work but also an expansion of external prevention programs.
"We have long seen the need for action"
The increase in psychosocial support staff was already announced in the government program, as various studies have shown an increase in mental stress among children and adolescents due to crises such as the Corona pandemic or international conflicts. The attack in Graz recently underscored the urgency of measures, according to a document from the ministry. "We have long seen the need for action and are now putting the major issue of mental health at the center of this government's work," Wiederkehr was quoted as saying.
Specifically, from 2026, in addition to the existing workshops on "Deradicalization," there will also be specific offers for "Psychosocial Support and Mental Health" in schools. The funds for workshops under the title "Strong School, Strong Society" are to be doubled to four million euros per year.
School Psychology: 390 instead of just under 190 positions
In school psychology, Wiederkehr once again announces a doubling of positions from currently just under 190 to 390 positions by the end of 2027. Additionally, from autumn, there will be federal positions for school social work at AHS and vocational middle and higher schools (BMHS) for the first time. In the 2025/26 school year, there will be 30, and in the following school year, another 25.
Following the shooting by a 21-year-old school dropout in Graz, the government has also announced further measures, such as an expansion of youth coaching and a mandatory counseling session with parents for students who are at risk of dropping out or being suspended. However, these are not yet ready for decision.
(APA/Red)
This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.