Germany has the reputation of having generous social programs, with vivid descriptions such as "cradle-to-grave" care. This makes it sound as if the state holds your hand and guides you gently through a carefree life. At the very latest when you try to navigate the German school system, comes a much different, sobering reality. At its core, the school system dates to the late 19th century and it shows. 

Mothers are tasked with filling in the many gaps left by the schools to try to shepherd their children through the system.

This constitutes hidden discrimination against women, as the burden is so great that many are forced to reduce to part-time work or quit altogether.  Children from lower-income families whose mothers cannot afford to stop working usually fare much worse in school than classmates who are better off. 

Until Germany modernizes its school system, there is no hope of creating real equal opportunity for women.

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Brenda Arnold