Originally named Hindenburgschule the Pestalozzischule stands before us. It was inaugurated on October 23 1915. For a short time, from 1922 to 1933, it was known as Goetheschule. In 1947, it finally received its current name: Pestalozzischule.
The Pestalozzischule is more than just a school. It is a place of learning and growth. Today, it is a combined primary and secondary school with Werkrealschule in Durlach. Durlach is a district of Karlsruhe. Approximately 500 students attend the Pestalozzischule. They are taught by 39 teachers.
Let’s delve a little deeper into its history. The foundation stone was laid in January 1914. Durlach was still an independent town back then. It had its own mayor. Karlsruhe annexed Durlach on April 1 1938.
The school’s name changes reflect the turbulent times. Renamed Goetheschule in 1922, it reverted to Hindenburgschule in 1933. Finally, in 1947, the teaching staff requested the name Pestalozzischule. It was named after Johann Heinrich Pestalozzi. He was a Swiss pedagogue.
Interestingly, another school in Karlsruhe had previously borne the name Pestalozzischule. Founded in 1846 as a Catholic girls’ school, it stood next to St. Stephan’s Church. Sadly, an air raid destroyed it on September 27 1944. It was never rebuilt.
After World War II, French occupation forces initially used this building. From September 1946 to June 1952, it served as a retirement home. It housed refugees from eastern territories. School lessons took place in the Karlsburg during this time. The building underwent extensive renovations. On October 25 1952, it was ceremoniously reopened as a school.
Since the school year 1999/2000, the Pestalozzischule has offered all-day classes in the primary school sector. The state of Baden-Württemberg introduced reliable primary schools in 2000/2001. Students can stay at school from 7:40 am to 4:00 pm during the week. Attending all-day classes is free. Parents only pay for lunch. Class sizes are limited to 22 students. School district students are prioritized. Children with single or working parents are also considered.
The Pestalozzischule participates in the MUS-E program since February 2006. This program promotes children’s personal development. It also strengthens their social skills through music. In November 2007, the school received the official MUS-E plaque.
The school has also received the “Boris” vocational choice seal. This is awarded by the state of Baden-Württemberg. It recognizes schools with strong vocational orientation.
The Pestalozzischule continues to evolve. It adapts to meet the changing needs of its students and community. The address is Christofstraße 23, 76227 Karlsruhe.