School board considers class size exception for West Brandon Elementary first grade classrooms

During the recent Brazosport ISD Board Meeting, a significant discussion centered on the approval of a class size exception waiver for West Brandon Elementary School. This request aligns with the district's commitment to maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment, particularly for grades K through 4, where the ideal student-to-teacher ratio is set at 22:1.

The district's local innovation plan, approved in May 2017, has provided greater flexibility regarding class size management. Previously, the district was mandated to submit waivers to the Texas Education Agency whenever class sizes exceeded the 22:1 ratio for 30 days. Now, under the new provisions, the district can monitor class sizes for a longer duration before seeking board approval for exceptions.

Currently, West Brandon Elementary has two first-grade classrooms that have exceeded the 22:1 ratio for more than 35 days. The administration emphasized that granting this exception would allow students to remain with their current teachers and classmates, fostering continuity and stability essential for effective learning. The principal expressed confidence that maintaining the current instructional arrangement would minimize disruption and that the class sizes are likely to decrease soon.

In response to questions about staffing, it was noted that a resident apprentice and a paraprofessional are assigned to support these classes, ensuring that students receive adequate attention despite the larger class sizes. The administration recommended that the board approve the class size exception to support the ongoing educational needs of the students.

This discussion highlights the district's proactive approach to managing classroom dynamics while prioritizing student learning and stability. The board's decision on this matter will be crucial in shaping the educational experience for students at West Brandon Elementary in the coming months.