In Geneva, a resounding yes for long weekends and summers

IN SHORT

Survey conducted by the Department of Public Instruction of Geneva among 120,000 people.
Participation of 47,000 citizens in the survey, reflecting interest in the subject.
One scenario selected to modify the school calendar.
Introduction of bridges during the Geneva Fasting and Ascension.
Extension of summer holidays by a few days.
Loss of five days in the Easter holidays.
Reform coming into effect at the next school year.

In Geneva, 47,000 citizens said yes to bridges and extended summers #

Recently, the city of Geneva took a remarkable initiative regarding the school calendar. A survey was conducted by the Department of Public Instruction, where 47,000 citizens, including parents, students, and teachers, expressed their opinions on the modifications to the calendar. This approach highlighted the desire to integrate bridges during Ascension and the Geneva Fasting, as well as to extend the summer holidays. Thus, adjustments are underway for the upcoming school year to meet the needs of Geneva families.

An engaged public consultation #

The survey reached approximately 120,000 people, proving the growing interest in customizing the school calendar. Of the five proposed scenarios, one emerged as the favorite solution. The importance of this consultation illustrates the power of local democracy, where every voice matters on a topic that affects so many families. The results display a strong commitment to adapting the calendar to better match the expectations and wishes of the residents.

The new opportunities offered by bridges #

The Geneva Fasting bridges in September and the Ascension bridges in May represent a real opportunity for families. They provide the possibility to enjoy genuine breaks without solely relying on school holidays. These additional days off promote family time, getaways, and the exploration of the beautiful Swiss landscapes.

A modification of summer holidays #

In addition to the bridges, the calendar will introduce an extension of the summer holidays, which will be lengthened by a few days compared to the previous year. This allows children and parents to have an even longer summer to enjoy the good weather and outdoor activities. In return, the Easter holidays will lose five days, as was the case before the 2022 school year, in order to balance the school calendar.

Impacts of this reform #

The reform that is expected to come into effect at the start of the next school year could have positive repercussions on family dynamics. By facilitating periods of rest and shared activities, the new provisions will help strengthen family bonds and ensure a balance between studies and leisure. This reform is part of a broader movement aimed at reevaluating and modernizing the Geneva educational system.

Civic engagement and future perspective #

This initiative in Geneva is an example of new forms of civic participation in public decision-making. Thanks to the engagement of the 47,000 participants, a collective voice has emerged to demand beneficial changes. In the future, this model could inspire other cantons to involve the community more in decisions that impact family and children’s lives. The city of Geneva thus shows the way towards a more inclusive educational system that is responsive to the expectations of its citizens.