What is a class size "target" and what does it mean in practice?
What is a class size "target" and what does it mean in practice?
We’ve heard questions from families about elementary class sizes and what our class size targets mean in practice. We want to provide clarity and transparency about how class sizes are determined and what you can expect.
What is a class size “target”?
Class size targets are goals that help guide staffing and planning across the district. At the elementary level, our building-wide average target is approximately 20–25 students per class.
It’s important to know that this is an average for the entire building , not a strict cap for every individual classroom. Some classes may be above or below the target depending on grade level, enrollment and other factors.
How class sizes vary by grade level
As students move through elementary school, class size targets gradually increase. For example, district targets range from kindergarten to fifth grade. This reflects the different academic and developmental needs of students at each level.
Why some classes may be above or below the target
There are several factors that influence class sizes, including:
- Total enrollment at a specific grade level
- The number of sections (classrooms) available
- Staffing considerations
- Classroom space and building capacity
- Student needs, including specialized programming or supports
Because of these factors, individual class sizes may vary, even while the overall average stays within the district target range.
What we are seeing in our schools
When we look at actual class sizes across our schools, the overall averages remain within the district’s target range, even though some individual classrooms may be higher or lower.
For example, at Park Spanish Immersion, current data shows variation by grade level, with some grades above target and others below, resulting in a building-wide balance.
How decisions are made
When enrollment shifts, the district carefully evaluates whether adjustments are needed. We monitor enrollment very closely over the summer because sometimes families move in and out of the district. Adding a section (classroom) is a significant decision that involves staffing, space, and long-term sustainability. In some cases, small variations above target may occur before adjustments are made.
Our commitment to students
Class size is one part of a larger system of support. Across our schools, we focus on:
- Strong instructional practices aligned to our Portrait of a Learner (ASCEND)
- Differentiated instruction to meet individual student needs
- Support staff, specialists, and accelerations where needed
- Building positive classroom environments through Park PRIDE
Our goal remains the same: to ensure each student is empowered, inspired and supported.
We understand that class size is an important topic for families, and we will continue to monitor enrollment closely and make adjustments when possible.