Topping-out ceremony for the Seiji Kimoto Community School: A milestone for Neunkirchen!

Topping-out ceremony for the Seiji Kimoto Community School: A milestone for Neunkirchen!

The topping-out ceremony for the new community school in Neunkirchen city center was celebrated on June 2, 2025. This significant event marks an important step in one of the Neunkirchen district's largest construction projects realized in the last 50 years. The foundation stone was laid almost a year ago and the investment of around 33.5 million euros underlines the commitment to education and infrastructure in the region. 

The new school will have a gross floor area of ​​around 9,000 m² and space for up to 575 students. The buildings are planned according to the KfW 40 efficiency standard and are characterized by a modern and sustainable construction, which includes, among other things, a photovoltaic system, a green roof and a comprehensive ventilation system. In addition, a district heating connection will be set up to maximize energy standards.

Modern learning environments and flexible use of space

The community school will not only consist of flexible learning spaces, but will also offer a cafeteria with a ceiling height of four meters, classrooms, lounges and a library, which are equipped with large windows. The school should therefore promote modern learning environments that support the students' independence and collaboration. In addition, a modern school sports hall will be set up in the basement, which can also be used for club sports.

The schoolyard will be designed as an “urban forest” and planted with 53 new trees. This underlines the goal of creating not only a learning platform, but also an environment that combines nature and education. Another important point is the renaming of the school to “Gesellschaftsschule Seiji Kimoto Neunkirchen”, in honor of the artist and activist Seiji Kimoto, whose beliefs live on in this project.

Community participation and future prospects

The topping-out ceremony was attended by numerous representatives of the city, the district, the school community and members of Alliance 90/The Greens. The guests included, among others, the district council member Marie Luise Herber as well as Mario Bost and Axel Schikorski. They emphasized the importance of the construction project for regional education and the associated high environmental standards. The new building sets standards for ecological responsibility and modern learning that meets the requirements and wishes of future generations.

The school is scheduled to be completed in August 2026. Until then, the students' lessons will temporarily take place in the former Freiherr von Stein School in Wiebelskirchen. The new school aims to create a central place for holistic learning in the district, which sets an example for the educational transition towards more sustainability and diversity. These community efforts are a clear step in the right direction to optimally prepare future generations for the challenges of the 21st century.