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Here's a simple class size policy from another district for elementary schools. This has a significant impact on facility planning in that the district has the foundation is in place that guides the proper sizing of schools (not just an across the board formula using contractual mandates that the capacity analysis is based upon). If you look at the Warwick capacity analyses, it is based on a union rule, not the educational values of the system.This is just one example of the type of input facility planning includes. When going through a planning process, there may be policy needs identified (such as no class size policy by grade) and they should be addressed as part of the process as they serve as an important factor in the foundation of the plan. Not only is this a responsible management practice for both resource allocation and education, what if RI moves to mandate class size as many states do? What would that do to the capacity in the schools? Shouldn't Warwick be proactive in identifying/adopting best practices such as this to ensure that substantial changes in the system are viable in the future?

CLASS SIZE

It is the intent of the School Board to provide for class sizes that will support effective instruction for students and efficient use of staff and facilities.

The School Board acknowledges the impact of class size on the learning environment and the value of maintaining optimal class size to foster effective learning. Therefore, the recommended class sizes in the elementary and middle schools shall be determined by several variables including grade level, subject area, nature of the students in the classroom, nature of the learning objectives, availability of classroom space, and budgetary considerations.

Keeping all of the above variables in mind, the School Board provides the following guidelines for determining targeted class size:

Grade K Grades 1 - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8

12-15 students 12-18 students 14-19 students 16-22 students

Larger class sizes will be allowed for the scheduling of large group instruction for certain classes including, but not limited to, fine arts, physical education, health, band, chorus, computer or other special classes or events.

These numbers are guidelines to be used when forming academic classes. While it is the hope of the School Board that the class sizes will reflect these guidelines, it is also recognized that instances may arise when class sizes will fall outside these guidelines.

When class enrollment exceeds the targeted class size by more than two (2) students, or drops below the targeted class size by more than one (1) student, the building administrator shall meet with the affected staff to determine the program needs at that level. The Superintendent, working in conjunction with the building administrator, shall develop a plan to meet the students’ needs at that level. The plan may include, but shall not be limited to, maintaining the class size, assigning additional staff (including educational technicians), re-assigning staff, transferring students to different classes, hiring additional staff or exploring staff reduction.

The superintendent’s decision will be communicated to the School Board with the understanding that Board approval will be required to hire any additional staff.

Legal References: M.R.S.A. Title 20A §4252 Chapter 125, Section 7

Adopted: April 3, 1990 Revised: June 21, 2006

From: On a roll to save Vets High

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