Archive: May 2003

Special Education Class Size and Caseload
By Steve Kaplan, UniServe Field Organizer

The contract sets caseloads and class sizes the District "will attempt to maintain." These caseloads and class sizes are found in Section 30.1 of the contract. Positions that do not have a designated caseload are to be monitored by a Joint Caseload Committee (Section 30.2). Whenever a concern arises under the terms of this article, the Joint Committee "will explore possible solutions" (Section 30.3). Solutions may include but are not limited to:

30.3.1 Reassignment/readjust of staff.
30.3.2 Tighter screening practices at schools.
30.3.3 Increased prevention at the site.
30.3.4 Readjustment of aide time.
30.3.5 Evaluation of student placement.
30.3.6 Reassignment of students to other classes or other chools.
30.3.7 Application for waivers as appropriate.

The Joint Caseload Committee has been meeting on a regular basis for
the past two years. If you believe you have a class size or case load issue:

• Review the contract language in Section 30.1
• Notify the Joint Caseload Committee

SDEA's goal is to use this process to resolve concerns whenever possible. However, we reserve the right to file grievances when necessary.