Zahna-Elster: Woman facing charges for breaching educational regulations - Child schooled at home for an extended period
In a case that first made headlines on July 24, 2025, a 51-year-old woman from Zahna-Elster is currently standing trial at the Dessau-Roßlau Regional Court. The woman, who fundamentally rejects the state's school obligation, is being accused of not sending her 13-year-old son to school from August 2022 to February 2024.
The defendant's son was not in school, even during the coronavirus pandemic, and was instead taught by his mother and his two older brothers. The court is examining whether the long absence from school has caused a significant developmental disorder.
The woman's son is now in grade 6 and attends a secondary school. According to reports, the defendant supports her son's wish not to attend school anymore, as he felt more comfortable and motivated at home.
The woman has lodged an appeal against a verdict that sentenced her to a suspended sentence. She argues that she has not violated her parental responsibility. The Dessau Regional Court is currently examining two judgments in the defendant's case.
Meanwhile, in another case, a 62-year-old man was sentenced to eleven years in prison for killing his son with an axe. The case is now being heard by the Federal Court of Justice.
A 65-year-old man has been sentenced to nine and a half years in prison for abusing his children, while a 47-year-old woman has been sentenced to eight years in prison for manslaughter and has filed an appeal.
It is important to note that school attendance is compulsory by law in Germany. Neglecting this obligation can lead to legal proceedings, with penalties or sanctions being imposed on parents.
As the trial continues, the outcome of the defendant's appeal remains uncertain. We will keep you updated on any developments in this case.
- The defendant, who opposes the state's school obligation, claims that she has not violated her parental responsibility, as her son's education and self-development were ensured through home tutoring during his extended absence from school.
- Despite the compulsory school attendance law in Germany, some cases have raised questions about the balance between parental rights and the child's education and self-development, as seen in the ongoing trial of the 51-year-old woman from Zahna-Elster.
