The State of Salzburg is closing its dedicated ombudsman office this Wednesday following a four-month investigation into harassment allegations at Volksschule Abfalter. The office was established after a teacher in the Aigen district was suspended from duty.
Led by former Regional Court President Hans Rathgeb, the office saw fifteen individuals come forward, including women reporting childhood incidents. Rathgeb has forwarded these reports to authorities, while school psychologists supported current students.
State Councilor Daniela Gutschi confirmed the Board of Education revised its child protection concept for the 2026/27 school year. Future reports will be handled by the Board's service point as the specialized ombudsman office concludes its temporary mission.