Combination Classes

Sometimes parents have concerns about combination classes.  The following information is provided for all those who have questions about this arrangement.

A combination class is a class of students from two grade levels. Combination classes are formed when population counts make the combination necessary. Any given classroom can only operate within certain student count limits.  If a class population exceeds the maximum for a grade level, the class must be split.  Similarly, if there are not enough students to form a full class, the class must be combined. The District Office determines how classes are configured based on student population data.

Contrary to what you might think, a combination class provides more of a challenge than a normal class does in many key areas.  As a result, only certain children can qualify for placement in a combination class, when one is available. Your child was not randomly placed in this class.  Instead, your child has been individually selected to be in a combination class. This type of classroom offers many opportunities for students to extend learning, develop independent learning skills, and to develop responsible work habits. Students in combination classes learn academic skills appropriate to their grade level in addition to important interpersonal skills.  Your child was selected for this class because they are very independent workers, they have good social and academic skills, they are self-motivated and they are leaders.  For these reasons, we believe that your child will find this to be a stimulating educational environment.

You can expect your child to receive high quality, standards-based instruction. Your child will be instructed in both small and large groups according to their grade level and academic need. Math, Social Studies and Science each have their own core content standards set by the state of Caifornia.  Your child will learn the appropriate skills to master their particular grade level standards. For Language Arts, I use the Reader's and Writer's Workshop model.  This individualizes each child's reading level and allows them to progress at their own speed to meet their grade level appropriate content stndards.

Of course, your third grade child will ONLY be taught third grade content, and your fourth grade student will ONLY be taught fourth grade content.  Fourth grade parents, your child was chosen for this combination class NOT because they were below benchmark, but because of their leadership and self-motivation skills, and other similar areas in which they excel, as mentioned above.

You will learn more about your child’s combination class on Back to School Night, September 8th, when I will discuss the daily schedule, grade level learning objectives, and discuss the curriculum in more detail.

I am very excited to be teaching this year’s combination class! This year will bring your child many wonderful opportunities, both academically and socially. This is a unique and powerful opportunity for those involved, and will provide an exceptional year of learning and fun for your child!