Graz school reopens after 2025 shooting as classrooms are redesigned

The BORG Dreierschützengasse school in Graz will resume classes on Monday after its buildings were redesigned following the June 2025 shooting, ORF reports. The renovated premises were presented on Friday.

Students had been taught in an external building while the school was rebuilt and redesigned with particular sensitivity. New surfaces, floors, ceilings, wall paint and curtains have changed the interior. School officials said the aim was to ensure that nothing would continue to remind students of the events of June 10, 2025.

Two classrooms where shots were fired have been completely removed from the school’s teaching areas. Architect Peter Polding said the approach was to eliminate the affected rooms through a package of measures while preserving the building’s identity, which he said was highly valued by students and teachers.

The redesigned school includes a room for remembrance, a new library and a partly opened classroom area with a tree growing in the outdoor section. Other features include a planted seating island and additional greenery.

About three million euros in federal funding was spent on redesigning roughly 3,500 square metres. A special allocation in 2026 also covered the redesign of about 100 square metres of sanitary facilities. The terrace is scheduled to be modernised in 2027.

Education officials said the school’s return was an important and emotional step. The building was adapted, renovated and modernised to provide safety, suitable learning conditions, opportunities for community and space for retreat and remembrance.

Support for those affected will continue. Education officials said school psychology and the crisis intervention team would continue working with families, bereaved relatives, victims and students.