At this time of the year, many teachers will be involved in building classes for next year. Here’s what you need to know.
If you cannot organize classes within the School Act limits, you should inform the principal that you will continue to participate only if formally directed.
The class-size and composition arbitration ruling from arbitrator Dorsey states that participation by teachers and departments in class building influences the principal’s opinion as to whether the class is appropriate for student learning. Principals have used teacher participation to justify their opinion that a class is appropriate for student learning. This justification is then used against teachers with untenable classes in the fall.
Dorsey’s decision serves as a warning that “platooning” or re-arrangements of students for instructional purposes to create oversize classes will preclude teachers from pursuing grievances.
If teachers, counsellors, or department heads assist in creating classes that exceed the School Act standards for size or composition, they may jeopardize the right of students and their teachers to classes that are educationally sound and truly appropriate for learning.
Please consult the wallet-sized brochure What teachers need to know about class size and composition, which will soon be available in your school.
If you are directed by your principal to engage in class building that exceeds the limits, call your local president for advice.