Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Early Education topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Fabens ISD to seek TEA class‑size waiver after trustees voice concern over crowded kindergarten sections
Summary
Trustees discussed two kindergarten sections that exceed the 22:1 student‑to‑teacher ratio and directed administration to reassess enrollment after Labor Day; the board approved filing a state waiver if the counts hold and to notify parents.
Trustees discussed and approved administration's recommendation to pursue a Texas Education Agency class‑size waiver for two Fabens Elementary kindergarten sections that currently exceed the statutory 22:1 classroom ratio.
Deputy/administrator Mr. Adakova described the situation: one kindergarten section was at 23 students and another at 24, exceeding the 22:1 class‑size standard cited in the district's packet. He told trustees the administration plans to reassess enrollment after Labor Day; if the higher counts remain, the district will notify parents and submit the required waiver to TEA so the classrooms can remain intact.
Board members expressed repeated concern about young students' learning needs and the availability of aides. Several trustees pressed administration to prioritize classroom support and to explore internal staffing moves before hiring new teachers. Administration replied that elementary staffing is currently right‑sized and that any move would require identifying certified teachers with appropriate credentials at other campuses; if no suitable transfers are available, hiring an additional teacher could be considered.
The board approved the consent item that included the waiver after the discussion. Administration said it will meet with campus principals, continue monitoring enrollment daily, ensure parent notification if a waiver is filed, and provide additional teacher support as feasible while staffing decisions remain under review.
