House Closer To Losing Class Size Limits

BRADENTON, FL -- State Republicans are one step closer to easing class size limits, despite attempts by Democrats to stop them. A motion by House Democrats was voted down today.

In 2002, voters passed a constitutional amendment putting hard caps on class size limits by 2010. Democrats say since 2003, the state has invested $16 billion into public school classrooms with $2.5 billion of it going to construction. Democrats add that smaller class sizes have also helped increase student performance. GOP leaders attribute the gains to the FCAT-based accountability system.

Republicans say that money could be used in other areas of education during these tough economic times, when school districts are forced to cut millions of dollars from their budgets.

Many local school districts support loosening the class size amendments. The Republicans' proposal would allow school district to meet school averages instead of individual class size limits. Schools would then be allowed to exceed class size limits by 3 to 5 students without penalty. Supporter say the move would give school districts more spending flexibility.

Manatee County School Board Member Harry Kinnan says implementing the smaller class size is a problem during this poor economy. The district estimates it would have to hire another 300 teachers to meet the limits.

"We would like flexibility. We've moved towards school accountability and decreased the size of our classrooms. Everyone agrees smaller classes are better but we'd like the flexibility," says Kinnan. He adds, "Before we go into individual class sizes to have some time, have the economy turn in such away we'd have more funding to do this. Otherwise, Manatee County and most counties would be challenged by that."

Manatee County estimates cutting $20 million for the next school year. The district has cut $30 million this year.

Kinnan says district leaders are trying to find ways to balance the budget without affecting students in the classroom.

"We've got wonderful teachers who inspire students. We have parental input and strong parental support in Manatee County. It encourages those of us who've been on the board for a while to know if we work together we can work through these issues."