Class Size Reduction

By Doug Park

Class Size Reduction is an important step in improving the academic performance of students.

Natomas Unified School District has FULLY implmented class size reduction for grades 1 - 3. Immediate implementation of Class Size Reduction for Kindergarten will be discussed at the October 11, 2000 Board Meeting.

In addition, NUSD has implemented reduced class sizes in selected high school classes for English and Algebra.

The current trend in class size reduction started with a study done in the State of Tennessee. In this study, class size was reduced from an average of approximately 28 students per class to approximately 17 students per class. In addition, three other steps were taken:

• The reading curriculum was changed and updated.
• The teachers involved in class size reduction received additional staff development.
• The teachers were required to make a visit to each child's home.

First, the teacher shortage in California is a problem that cannot be easily overcome. Without qualified teachers available in sufficient numbers to meet even the current demand for teachers, it would not be responsible to expand class size reduction at this time.

Second, unless the Legislature appropriates additional funds for teacher salaries, support staff and facilities, the District's budget cannot support an expansion of class size reduction.

Finally, even if the problems of teachers and funding were resolved, the need to construct new classrooms, and perhaps additional schools, to accommodate an expansion of class size reduction could take several years. I do not want to overcrowd the existing campuses with portable classrooms unless it is a temporary measure necessitated by the construction of permanent facilities.