Washington State Average Class Size report

What’s the true size of classes across the state? Teachers say the class sizes are huge…often 25+. Data from reports filed with the state say they are often under 20 with 17-19 tending to be more normal. Claims that the class sizes are too large leads to hiring more teachers leading to more taxes.

How about we get some facts? In today’s article we explore data gathered by our data guru Jeff Heckathorn which can be seen at this website: Welcome to the School Data Project! | The School Data Project

Here are some observations that can be seen in the report: http://www.schooldataproject.com/average_class_size

• Most small districts (e.g., South Whidbey, Republic, Onion Creek) have much smaller average class sizes than other school districts.

• High school only public charter schools (Summit Atlas and Summit Sierra) have the usual larger average class sizes common for all high schools.

• The large Federal Way SD with 66% low income students has a disproportionately high average class size.

• In the interest of fairness, the Mercer Island SD may need to transfer a few teachers (along with its funding allocation for them) to school districts with higher percentages of low income students.

• School districts that operate mostly remotely before the pandemic (e.g. Mary M Knight, Quillayute Valley, and Omak) have larger class sizes. Students there need to be more independent.

• Comments: Usually, there is variation of course between elementary schools and secondary schools. Elementary school class sizes are usually on the smaller side. A good thing. Learning how to read well is being taught. High school class sizes are usually on the larger size. More independent learning is required of high school students.

How do you use the chart on Jeff’s website?

1.   Rapidly double click any colored dot next to a school district name. That should “de-select” all but that one. You may need to try a few times…it’s a little sensitive.
2.   Choose the district you want to look at and then “mouse over” the colored dots on the chart for school districts within that county
3.   Add other districts by “single clicking” them to add to your chart. Doing it this way you can compare as many counties and school districts as you choose.

Summary:  Does this data help you understand how many children in an average classroom in your district? Does it surprise you?