Could you imagine a school rooted in history that has evolved into a modern educational institution? That is the Freiherr-vom-Stein-Gymnasium. This school in Muenster began in 1852. Emilie Koch a 37-year-old teacher founded it. She obtained permission from the royal government to establish a private Protestant girls’ school.
Initially, the school was held in Emilie Koch’s private rooms. About twelve girls were taught there. Over time, it grew into the Gymnasium we see today. In 2006, it welcomed around 860 students and 65 teachers. The Freiherr-vom-Stein-Gymnasium moved into a modern school building in Muensterland.
The private girls’ school developed into an evangelical Lyzeum and Oberlyzeum by 1909. The first Reifeprüfung was held there in 1912. In 1920, the private school became a municipal one. It took three more years to get its name. In 1923, it was named Freiherr-vom-Stein-Gymnasium. Dr M Scheller the headmaster requested the name.
The city approved his request. The name was chosen to honor Freiherr vom Stein. He had greatly served as the Oberpräsident of the province. This name should inspire teachers and students alike. They should emulate his noble character. They should strive for his unwavering commitment to good. His deep German piety and faith in his people should be their guide.
The staff of the Freiherr-vom-Stein-Gymnasium felt connected to the ideals of their patron. The school moved through various locations in Muenster’s city center. In 1957, the school building at Hindenburgplatz was inaugurated. It became its well-known traditional location.
In 1986, the school collaborated with the Schillergymnasium in Kreuzviertel for the upper school. That same year a full-day program was developed for grades 5 to 7. It accommodated many younger working parents. The Freiherr-vom-Stein-Gymnasium was the first Gymnasium in Muenster to start full-day operations. This began in the 1987/88 school year with 20 students. A broad upper school program and a reliable full-day program led to continuously increasing student numbers.
After 49 years at Hindenburgplatz, the Freiherr-vom-Stein-Gymnasium moved again. This happened in 2006. Its new building is located on Dieckmannstraße. It can accommodate 1250 students. The first groundbreaking took place in September 2004. The foundation stone was laid in February 2005. The topping-out ceremony was celebrated in the summer of 2005. The “Stein” school started operations on Dieckmannstraße in time for the 2006/2007 school year.
The Freiherr-vom-Stein-Gymnasium offers a wide range of subjects. From the 5th grade, these include Mathematics, German, English, and Biology. Also offered are Sports, LAMM, Geography, Catholic Religion, Evangelical Religion, and Philosophy. From the 6th grade, students can study Computer Science and Physics. From the 7th grade, Spanish, French, and Latin are available. Italian is offered from the 10th grade.
The Freiherr-vom-Stein-Gymnasium stands as a testament to Muenster’s commitment to education. It embodies a blend of tradition and progress. As we conclude our visit, consider the countless students. Consider the educators who have shaped the school’s identity over the years. The Freiherr-vom-Stein-Gymnasium continues to inspire and prepare future generations.