Larger classes likely in Georgia schools
Superintendent proposes change in reaction to recession
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
The maximum number of students allowed in most classes would rise next school year, under class-size waivers state schools Superintendent Kathy Cox proposed Wednesday.
Cox said the waivers are needed because of the recession and expectations that local property tax revenues will continue to decline.
• 2009 CRCT
• 2009 High School Graduation Test
• 2008 SAT: School-by-school
• List: Students promoted despite failing CRCT
Related
• Get Schooled blog: When should transfers be allowed?
[an error occurred while processing this directive] • Teachers santioned in Georgia
• More about schools
• AJC School Guide
The proposal would increase the maximum size of all core classes in elementary and middle schools by 2 students. The maximum size for kindergarten would increase to 20 students; grades 1-3 would increase to 23; and grades 4-8 would increase to 30.
No exemptions were recommended for core high school classes, which are capped at 32 students. Core classes cover English, math, science, social studies and foreign languages.
The waivers are for all 180 school districts and would be in place for the 2009-10 school year only.
Cox explained her plan in a 15-page letter she gave State Board of Education members Wednesday.
Board members and Cox are scheduled to discuss the plan Wednesday afternoon. The board is scheduled to vote on the item Thursday morning.



DEL.ICIO.US