Number of students per class may rise

Some teachers worry about disadvantaged children

Updated: Tuesday, 24 Feb 2009, 1:05 PM MST
Published : Tuesday, 24 Feb 2009, 1:04 PM MST

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Lawmakers are considering increasing the average number of students in elementary school classrooms. Many unhappy teacher groups spoke out Tuesday at the State Capitol against Senate Bill 300 , introduced by Sen. Dan Patrick of Houston.

If the bill passes, the current cap of 22 kids per class would instead become an average of 22 kids per class. Teachers worry that many classes would be greater than the average size and leave disadvantaged children behind.

"Why don't you [ Senate Finance Committee ] say starting now, 'How do we in 2012 make sure that every at-risk campus of K-4 kids is at 15-to-1?'" said Richard Kouri, with the Texas State Teachers Association .

Patrick said he is open to suggestions but feels his bill would save the state money.

"This is a bill about money, teachers, children, local control," said Patrick.

Senators will continue to debate the bill in their committee, and if the bill moves out of committee, KXAN Austin News will be sure to keep you posted.

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