Minister emphasizes need for collaboration to address overcrowding in special schools in Iceland

The education and child affairs minister has emphasized the urgent need for collaboration between the state and municipalities to address the serious situation of overcrowded special schools. Minister Ásmundur Einar Daðason indicated that immediate action is required, suggesting that schools need support in catering to diverse student needs.

Klettaskóli, a special school, has been over capacity for years and recently had to deny enrollment to eleven children who will instead attend regular schools. This situation has sparked discussions about opening a new school similar to Klettaskóli, as highlighted by comments from a leading advocate for children with disabilities. MP Dagbjört Hákonardóttir raised the issue in parliament, describing the current circumstances as critical and questioning why municipalities and the state are facing such clear challenges in managing special school applications.

Daðason acknowledged that while primary education and issues concerning individuals with disabilities fall under local governance, they also represent state responsibilities. He insisted on the necessity of finding long-term solutions through cooperative efforts, particularly concerning the operation of specialized resources. He stressed the importance of early intervention within the educational system to address the varied needs of students effectively. Daðason pointed out that an integrated approach involving diverse systems must be implemented to assist schools in providing the necessary support for different students.