Article VII - Class Size

7.1 The parties agree that they have a mutual interest in maintaining low class sizes to enhance students’ educational experiences as appropriate under applicable funding and facility constraints. This Agreement was negotiated after the implementation of the Local Control Funding Formula (“LCFF”); therefore, the parties consider the agreement to be a locally negotiated alternative to LCFF.

7.2 Class size shall not normally exceed the following maximums except in traditionally large groups such as P.E. or experimental classes and other non-self-contained classes.

7.3 The figures below are desired class size maximums for self-contained classes at each grade level at Newcastle Elementary/Charter School. The figures below are desired class sizes and may be exceeded when deemed necessary, as determined by the District after consultation with the Association president and/or their designee. If class sizes exceed the desired maximums, bargaining unit members assigned to such classes will be compensated according to the schedule below:

A. DESIRED CLASS SIZE MAXIMUMS (SELF-CONTAINED CLASSES)

Transitional Kindergarten 22

Kindergarten 24

First through Third 24

Fourth and Fifth 30

Sixth through Eighth 30

B. COMPENSATION FOR CLASS SIZE OVERAGES

Bargaining unit members assigned to a self-contained class with an enrollment over the “Desired Class Size Maximums” listed above, shall receive either additional salary of $150.00 per student over the maximum class size per trimester or unit members can elect to meet with District administration and the Association president or their designee to mutually agree upon additional aide time in lieu of additional compensation. (Example: Grade 3 class of 26 – the employee would receive $300.00 per trimester for the two (2) extra students on their class roster, regardless of daily attendance numbers.)

A bargaining unit member shall only be entitled to compensation for class size overages if the overage lasts for at least 50% of the student attendance days in the trimester based on class size enrollment numbers. If eligible, the teacher shall receive payment after the trimester has concluded on the next available supplemental payday. Such payment shall be considered supplemental pay and be subject to applicable taxes and withholdings.

7.4 In the event a class overage occurs, extra textbooks and other essential supplies to meet student needs will be provided by the District.