Archive: March 2005

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

The Contract sets caseloads and class sizes which 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 schools.
30.3.7 Application for waivers as appropriate.

The Joint Caseload Committee meets on a regular basis. If you believe
you have a class size or caseload issue:

• Review the Contract language in Section 30.1
  
• Notify the Joint Caseload Committee, include name, position, site, class size/caseload information, and any other pertinent information. (send to SDEA attn: Special Education 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.