Once a lazaret during World War II, Grundschule Alt-Karow stands as a beacon of learning. It is located at Bahnhofstrasse 32. The school’s story began long before its current structure.
Let’s step back in time. The school’s origins trace back to the early 16th century. In 1520, instruction was provided by local clergy and teachers. However, until the 19th century, education was irregular. Older children even went to the neighboring village of Buch for lessons. The “schoolmasters” in Karow were considered less qualified.
In 1881, the church parish constructed a school building. It stood next to the church. In 1907, a second story was added to accommodate growing numbers. By 1920, Karow was part of Greater Berlin. The school then had four classrooms for eight grade levels.
The current building of Grundschule Alt-Karow was built between 1934 and 1938. During World War II, the building served as a military hospital. On June 1, 1945, the school reopened. It was one of the first in Berlin to do so after the war. Around 1,000 students returned to learn.
In the late 1950s, it became a 10-grade polytechnic secondary school. In 1973, the school was named after Ottomar Geschke. After reunification in 1991, the former secondary school became the 8th elementary school of Weissensee. In 1995, it was renamed Grundschule Alt-Karow.
Grundschule Alt-Karow has undergone significant renovations. These include a new roof, windows and modernized facade. The hallways received a fresh coat of paint.
The school grounds now include the original building. It has over 14 classrooms. There is also a computer room and three smaller group rooms. A modernized sports hall stands next to the main building. The “White House,” a container building, hosts eight rooms. These rooms are used for all-day care. Near the sports field is a building for practical lessons. A flat building with four rooms is used for extracurricular activities. The cultural center houses the cafeteria with a kitchen and dining hall.
The school’s motto is “Learning together and healthy”. The school’s team includes Frau Aster who is the school director of Grundschule Alt-Karow. Frau Reffert is the deputy headmistress. Frau Förster is the secretary. Frau Zengel is the coordinating educator. Herr Hempel is the school social worker. Herr Schulze is the administrative director. Herr Jorkuweit is the caretaker.
Today, Grundschule Alt-Karow continues its long tradition. It shapes young minds. It prepares them for the future. It is a cornerstone of the Karow community.