The Governor Wentworth Regional School District board discussed proposed revisions to the district’s class‑size policy during a first reading, focusing on kindergarten through grade 2. Board members and administrators debated whether the district should explicitly state a local goal of limiting K–2 classroom size to 20 students while noting the state’s statutory maximum of 25.

Why this matters: Classroom size affects instructional models, staffing needs and the budget. Explicitly lowering target class sizes can require additional hires or reassignments and affect town budgets and subsequent warrant articles.

Key points from the discussion

Several board members urged the policy to reflect the district’s preference for smaller early‑grade class sizes, citing the hands‑on care younger students require. One member cited developmental demands—helping with bathroom breaks, handwashing and other routines—as reasons to aim below the statutory maximum. An administrator cautioned that local staffing patterns vary across the six towns (for example, some schools have only one teacher per grade level) and that reducing targets could require multiple additional hires or part‑time supports in small schools.

Administrators noted the current statutory framework allows a maximum class size of 25 in K–2 but that the district has historically “striven for” lower numbers—about 20 students—where feasible. The board discussed adding language that would preserve administrative discretion for unique circumstances and to avoid unintended budgetary implications.

Outcome and next steps

This item was presented as a first reading; no adoption vote occurred. Board members asked administration to provide enrollment projections and the potential staffing budget implications before the second reading and final adoption. The policy draft will be revisited at the next board meeting according to the regular first/second reading process.

Ending

Board members said they value smaller early‑grade classes but will weigh educational goals against fiscal constraints and enrollment patterns before adopting a formal change.