Advocacy for Small Schools in Lomma Amid Demographic Shifts
Lomma politicians emphasize the necessity of small schools amid demographic changes, countering proposals for closures.
Key Points
- • Prominent Lomma politicians support small schools amidst demographic changes.
- • Criticism of plans to close smaller schools for larger institutions as shortsighted.
- • Education should be evaluated through a long-term perspective, not just immediate budget cuts.
- • Maintaining small schools fosters community trust and personalized education.
In a recent opinion piece published on May 31, 2025, Per Bengtsson and Thomas Eneström, members of the Social Democrats in Lomma, voiced strong opposition to proposals for closing smaller schools due to declining birth rates. They were responding to a vision presented by Robert Wenglén (M), chairman of the municipal council, who argued for the closure of smaller schools in favor of larger institutions citing efficiency in taxpayer spending.
Bengtsson and Eneström criticize Wenglén’s perspective as overly simplistic, warning that decisions based solely on immediate budgetary concerns may lead to long-term negative consequences for students and the community. They argue that education must be viewed through a long-term generational lens, highlighting the evolving needs of students and the importance of maintaining small schools that promote personalized education.
They emphasize that shuttering small schools could save money in the short run but might result in a loss of community trust and additional costs in the future, as educational support could become inadequate for today's learners. The authors advocate for improving teaching quality and addressing the diverse needs of each child, stressing that a robust welfare system is essential, with education at its core.