In addition to exciting lessons at school, the program also included a walk through the city, during which the children were able to discover Gronau with completely new eyes. Equipped with observation tasks, they set off into the city: Where do I recognize that children live in the city? Where do I see a particularly interesting house? And what helps people with disabilities to find their way around Gronau? The children captured their impressions on camera and then created great books using the "Book Creator" app. Another focus was on the "Kinder-Notinsel" project. The pupils found out how this project helps children in emergency situations, looked for stickers on shop windows and visited stores that participate in the project.
The crowning finale was a visit to Mayor Rainer Doetkotte. The children met the mayor of Gronau in the WZG building, where his office is currently located. Together with their teachers Ms. Brüning and Ms. Grammel-Engel, the classes made their way there. Mr. Doetkotte greeted the children warmly in the large conference room, where the city council usually meets.
They asked him professional and private questions with great interest: How long have you been mayor? Why did you want to become one? Where were you born? What is your favorite color? Mr. Doetkotte explained patiently and in a child-friendly manner that he has been in office since 2019 and answered all the questions from the inquisitive children. The mayor also took the time to listen to the pupils' ideas and wishes for an even more child-friendly Gronau. From soccer clubs and more playgrounds to offers and changes in the schools - the children had many thoughtful suggestions, which Mr. Doetkotte received with interest.
A real highlight for the primary school pupils was the chain of office presented by the mayor - a special piece of jewelry that he only wears on festive occasions.
So that everyone could regain their strength after the exciting round of questions, Mr. Doetkotte bought the children another round of drinks. Even after the official part, many of the children remained standing, full of questions and with shining eyes.
A big thank you to Mayor Rainer Doetkotte for his time and the open exchange with our pupils!
Please click for a larger view of the photos!