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Erfurt School Headmaster to Step Down After Abuse Scandal

The move reflects a push for accountability after a teacher’s conviction.

Overview

  • The headmaster will relinquish his post on December 1 in agreement with the Thuringian Education Ministry, as a disciplinary procedure proceeds.
  • On October 30, the Erfurt regional court sentenced a teacher to five years and three months in prison for abusing a pupil in more than 80 cases from 2016 to 2020; the verdict is final after his confession.
  • Trial reporting indicated the pupil had confided in the headmaster but allegedly received no help, intensifying scrutiny of the school’s leadership.
  • A former trusted teacher has been charged with sexual abuse and rape of other pupils in a separate case, with alleged offenses dating back to 2013 and a trial still pending.
  • The presiding judge sharply criticized the school’s leadership, and authorities say they are coordinating a successor and support measures to enable a clear new start for the school community.