In the school board minutes from the February 2012 meeting, the proposal has been made to increase class size in the upcoming 2nd, 4th, 5th, and 6th grade classes throughout the district. According to Johnson, reducing the number of teachers by “making use of staff retirement, sections of these classes can be reduced from 3 teachers to two and be “well within policy”. 

On March 8, Dr Johnson prepared a chart that shows current class size and proposed increases to classes across the district.  In some cases, the change is from 19-22 students to next year class size of 28-29 students.  There are 5 sections projected to be in the 28-29 students range. There are an additional 5 sections projected to be in the 26-27 students range.

On April 9, after much public comment, the School Board made a motion to discuss Class Size. After some discussion, the motion was tabled again. At this time, the Board has sought out the opinions of parents, educators, and community members alike.

On April 29, the School Board will again discuss the policy at Jeffrey Mansion from 2-4pm. Dr. Johnson as an employee of the district must comply with any changes to the policy by the School Board. Under the current policy, his choice to increase classes to 29 students per classroom is in compliance. If public comment demonstrates to the School Board that a reduction in class size to less than 25 is more desirable, then the Board can change the policy to indicate it. Please sign your name to the petition and support the smaller class sizes in Bexley.

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