The Impact of a Five-Euro Fine on School Punctuality

The Dürer-Gymnasium in Nuremberg implemented a five-euro fine for students arriving late without a valid excuse. This initiative, started in May, has successfully reduced tardiness, despite being enforced in selective cases.

Headmaster Reiner Geißdörfer emphasizes the fine is not punitive but aims to address habitual lateness. The measure follows extensive discussions with parents, teachers, and counselors, and targets students in grades 9 to 11. The fine is a last resort after other interventions fail.

Geißdörfer notes that documenting lateness digitally aids in identifying underlying issues early. The approach highlights the importance of understanding the varied reasons behind truancy, such as sleep patterns or psychological challenges intensified by the pandemic.

Geißdörfer advocates for educational reforms, suggesting a shift towards project-based learning to engage students more effectively. Although initially shocking, the fine's rationale is now better understood by students, affecting only repeat offenders.