Farewell Party: A Reward Perhaps, But No Salary
A savings bank in Niedersachsen, Germany, faced a tax dispute over a lavish farewell party for its retiring CEO, which was deemed to exceed allowable expense limits, but successfully defended against the tax authorities' claims.
SZ in the Evening: News from February 17, 2026
The article highlights major news in Germany, including the categorization of the AfD party in Niedersachsen as extremist, the death of civil rights activist Jesse Jackson, and a controversy involving a news broadcast using AI-generated images.
SZ Series 'A Call to...': 'Shila Doesn't Listen to Anyone'
A family from Niedersachsen is facing a recurring issue as their cat Shila frequently rides trains without their knowledge, leading to amusing yet concerning situations.
House with Salon Culture: The Splendor of the Founding Era
Michael Bartsch and Sven Bartsch-Siegmund have beautifully decorated their 350 square meter villa in Bad Harzburg, Niedersachsen, in the style of the founding era, featuring colorful stucco ceilings and heavy velvet curtains.
Winter Weather: Snow and Ice Predicted in Parts of Germany
Parts of Germany, especially Niedersachsen, are facing hazardous winter weather with forecasts of snow and ice leading to chaotic road conditions.
"Reduction of Claims" or Sensible? When Written Division is Eliminated
Niedersachsen has decided to stop teaching written division in elementary schools, citing high error rates in the method, a controversial move among experts and a cause for protest among affected parents.
Mathematics: Fewer Algorithms, More Understanding: Why Researchers Welcome the Abolition of Written Division
Researchers advocate for the elimination of written division in mathematics to promote deeper understanding, amidst a surprising public debate prompted by Niedersachsen's education ministry.
Education Policy: No Elementary School Child Needs to Master Written Division
The article discusses the challenges faced by German schools in 2026, including staff shortages and infrastructure issues, while arguing against the necessity for elementary school children to master written division as Niedersachsen modifies its math curriculum.
Mathematics Classes: This is how elementary school students will divide in the future
Planned changes in Niedersachsen will shift third and fourth graders from traditional written division to a semi-written division method starting in the 2027/28 school year, sparking discussions about the educational reforms.
Dispute over Hardship Regulation: Cunningly Reducing Hardship Cases
Niedersachsen seeks to reduce the number of applications for humanitarian protection, causing controversy among supporters of those affected.
"Children do not belong in court" - SPD minister rejects CSU initiative
Niedersachsen's Justice Minister Kathrin Wahlmann opposes CSU's proposal to put offenders under 14 years old on trial, stating that populist demands do not address the root causes of crime.