Please read:
2021 April
Dear Stallion Families,
Each spring there is considerable discussion about placing children in classes for the next school year. This is a matter that we do not take lightly at Sonoma Ranch; the teachers and I will spend countless hours forming well-balanced classes in which all children will have an opportunity to learn and to grow in their academic as well as social skills.
It is hoped that a frank review of our procedures for class placement of students will alleviate the need for parents to individualize their concerns or make requests for specific teachers.
When classes are structured, we follow a clear set of guidelines. Classes are formed into deliberate heterogeneous groups with the following in mind:
- An even girl-boy balance
- A full range of aptitudes within each class
- An even proportion of abilities and learning styles across the classes at each grade level
- An equal number of pupils in each class on a grade level
- Adherence to the cluster classroom model for ELL, Special Education and ALP/Gifted instruction
Once these factors have been considered, teachers begin to build a class of children who show promise of working well together. At this point, attempts are made to match pupil and teacher personality and style. Quite understandably, these decisions are based upon observations made by the teachers during the course of the year. While we welcome your input about your child’s individual learning needs and welcome your completion of the form at the attached link, we trust that you understand that your comments constitute just one of the many factors that we consider in forming classes. The final decision on class placements resides with the school.
As always, I thank you for your continued support of our efforts at Sonoma Ranch Elementary.
Your Principal,
Principal