Know Your Contract
Class Size
With all the recent changes it seems that my class size is so large that it has become unmanageable. Is there any relief I can seek?
ESP: This "Know Your Contract" pertains to the teachers class size.
WEA Teachers:
ARTICLE 20 – Class Size
Article 22-1 The Board will continue to make every reasonable effort to establish and maintain pupil-teacher ratios, which will permit the maximum of individualization of instruction. In this regard, if a teacher believes that the number of students assigned to that teacher is not consistent with sound educational practice, the teacher shall have the right, upon written request to the principal or supervisor, with a copy to the Superintendent, to schedule a conference with his or her principal or supervisor regarding the matter. The principal or supervisor will respond to the teacher’s concern.
Unlike some other contracts in the metro area that only address the number of students, the contract between WEA and the Board of Education provides for a more holistic approach to class size that allows relief not just when a specific number is reached, but when the size and/or composition of the class does not permit a reasonable level of individualized instruction or does not conform to sound educational practices.
If you are faced with this situation, WEA strongly encourages you to first discuss the matter with the appropriate building administrator. Discuss with your administrator how the size and composition of your class is impacting your ability to individualize instruction and/or how the size is preventing sound educational practices from being implemented. Discuss with your administrator some options that could be implemented that will result in an improved ability to maximize instruction.
But if this fails to bring a reasonable amount of relief, follow up with a written request pursuant to Article 20 and be sure to send a copy to the Superintendent and to WEA. WEA can then provide you with assistance in resolving the problem. WEA has found over the years that teachers who utilize this procedure have always been able to reach an agreement that meets the needs of kids and staff.
Your building administrator is not required to inform you of your rights. It is up to you to Know Your Contract!
This message is intended for members of the Westminster Education Association
and is not intended for distribution to the general public.
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