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IIB Class Size

The RSU 1 Board of Directors recognizes that there is a relationship between class size and pupil achievement and that this relationship varies greatly across grade levels, among subjects and by methods of instruction. The recommended class size in the elementary and secondary schools shall be determined by several variables including grade level, subject area, nature of the pupils in the classroom, nature of the learning objectives, availability of classroom space, instructional methods and procedures used, skills, and classroom space, strengths of the teachers and support staff and budgetary constraints.

Keeping all of these variables in mind, the following average class size targets shall serve as a general guide for the organization of classes in the elementary and secondary schools.

Grade Level Class Size Range Recommended Class Size Recommended Minimum Class Size

Pre K 12-16 15 14 K-1 16-20 18 16 2-3 18-22 20 18 4-5 18-24 22 19 6-8 18-25 23 20 9-12 18-25 23 **

Higher class sizes will be allowed for the scheduling of large group instruction for special classes including: fine arts, physical education, instrumental and/or choral music and other special instructional arrangements (e.g. lectures). Special Education teacher-student ratios are to be in compliance with Special Education caseload rules and State standards. Smaller class size may be revisited based on the evaluation of needs in a class. The superintendent, in consultation with the principal, shall consider options.

**Class sizes below 10 are sometimes unavoidable at the secondary level due to either a schedule accommodation issue or a curriculum sequence need. If due to scheduling courses to accommodate the educational needs of individual students, a course section may have to be scheduled at two different times, smaller class sizes may result. Other courses may be offered despite a small class size because the course is part of a sequence of requirements. For example, a sudden drop in interest for French 3 may result in fewer students taking this course, yet these students, having committed to French for 2 years, should be assured access to the next level of instruction.

When any high school course falls below a 10:1 ratio or any elementary or middle school class size clearly exceeds (by 2 or more students) the maximum range, the principal shall notify the superintendent. The superintendent, in consultation with the principal, shall consider options to resolve the issue. Options may include, but are not limited to:

  • Maintaining current class size;

  • Assigning additional staff;

  • Transferring some students to a different class; or

  • Canceling the course.

The superintendent's decision will be communicated to the RSU 1 Board of Directors with the understanding that Board approval will be required to hire any additional staff.

Approved: December 20, 2011
Revised: November 25, 2019

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