Once, a devastating event shaped the Kreuzschule we see today. Let me tell you about this cornerstone of Muenster’s Kreuzviertel. The Kreuzschule, a Catholic primary school, has a rich history. It reflects the changing face of education in Muenster.
The Kreuzschule first opened its doors on June 25, 1896. It was located on Kampstra\u00dfe 15. The school chronicle described it as a magnificent three-story building. It had a beautiful facade. The building housed twelve classrooms and apartments for twelve teachers. The Kreuzschule started with five classes.
Official records from 1896 mention the name Kreuz-Schule for the first time. Interestingly, the nearby Heilig Kreuz parish church came later. This emphasizes the Kreuzschule’s early significance in the area.
Due to increasing student numbers, the teacher apartments became classrooms in 1904 and 1905. This allowed the Kreuzschule to expand to twelve classes.
Tragedy struck in 1944. Allied forces completely destroyed the old Kreuzschule during the war. It was not until 1953 that the new Kreuzschule was inaugurated. The school finally got its own gymnasium in the 1970s.
In 1968, the Kreuzschule transformed into a primary school. This change was part of a restructuring of the school system in North Rhine-Westphalia. The Kreuzschule then focused on the first four school years. Student numbers decreased from over 800 in the 1950s to around 200 in the 1970s. Numbers declined further to between 160 and 180 in the 1980s. This reform led to surplus classrooms. The Kreuzschule could finally establish its own teacher’s lounge.
Since May 2021, the Kreuzschule has been undergoing construction. The expansion aims for a three-stream structure. The construction provides more space for students and teachers. The Kreuzschule is creating two staff offices. There will be two classrooms, two rooms for after-school care, and two multipurpose rooms. A media room will also be created.
After completion, the children in the after-school program will have lunch in a large, beautiful cafeteria. Classes still take place in the old building during construction. There are no restrictions.
Today, the Kreuzschule has 196 children in eight classes. Over 80 percent of these children participate in the open all-day program. Astrid B\u00fchl is the current principal. You can visit the school’s website to learn more. You can also see pictures of daily school life in the gallery. There is also an information brochure for download. You can even get to know the teachers online.
The Kreuzschule continues to evolve. It adapts to meet the needs of its students and the community. It stands as a testament to the enduring importance of education in Muenster. It is more than just a school. The Kreuzschule is a vital part of the Kreuzviertel.