Tallinn schools and kindergartens see fewer children as new school year begins
Tallinn's city government reports a continued decline in the number of children in municipal schools and kindergartens, cutting kindergarten groups by 35 this year, while major road works will complicate the start of the school year.
Ahead of the new school year, Tallinn city officials say the number of children in municipal schools and kindergartens continues to decline. The city will have 35 fewer kindergarten groups this year, with the biggest cuts affecting the Lasnamäe and Mustamäe districts.
According to preliminary data, about 3,600 children are expected to start first grade in municipal schools this year. The total number of students in the capital's schools will be known after September 10. It is already clear, however, that schools transitioning to Estonian-language instruction continue to see falling enrollment.
Growth expected at gymnasium level
Tallinn deputy mayor Andrei Kante explained that the ongoing reform shifting instruction to Estonian has caused a large influx of students from other municipalities into the capital's gymnasium level. While last year showed a trend of declining gymnasium enrollment, this year an increase is expected.
Overall, the number of children in the capital is gradually decreasing, prompting the reduction of kindergarten groups this year. Kante noted that for the first time in a considerable period, the number of kindergarten children has fallen below 17,000. No kindergarten is being closed, though several are being merged. Meanwhile, in districts such as Pirita and Kesklinn, the city will need to create additional kindergarten spots and is preparing for this.
Road works add complications
In September, students and parents should be aware that road works will continue across several districts, including near schools. The reconstruction of Peterburi Road will continue until November 18, after which it will reopen to traffic. The Paekaare intersection is set to open at the end of September, while construction on Suur-Sõjamäe Street will continue until 2028. Work on Sõle Street is already 80% complete; the turn onto Kolde Boulevard has reopened, though work there continues.
The most difficult section remains the intersection near the hippodrome, where work will continue for another year. By the start of the school year, officials promise two lanes in each direction will be open there, though drivers should still expect serious congestion. Deputy mayor Joel Jesse urged residents to plan their routes in advance and use alternative roads through Mustamäe and Kristiine, and to keep the public transport lane on Paldiski Road clear for buses. Officials also urged drivers to be especially attentive and observe speed limits near schools.
