As the school year progresses, discussions about class sizes and the potential impact of free periods on student enrollment and elective courses have become hot topics in the hallways.
While students, teachers, and administrators weigh in with differing perspectives, what’s facts and what’s false?
One of the most pressing concerns for students and staff alike is class size. Are classes too full this year? Is it because of an increase of students? Are classes even full at all?
“I notice that classes are a little on the bigger side this year, but I don’t really think it’s a problem,” junior Tilly Moreland said. “I don’t notice it that much though.”
Even though some classes may seem bigger than others, it’s strategically placed like that, “Class sizes will just depend on the type of class it is,” Principal Shawn DeRose said. “Some of our IB classes tend to be a little bit bigger than our on-level or general education classes. If you look at general education across the division, our class sizes are lower than most, and many are team-taught.”
While student enrollment numbers might typically contribute to concerns about overcrowded classrooms, DeRose emphasized that this year’s student population has remained relatively stable. “In reality, I think our enrollment has leveled off. We’re not seeing a huge influx of more students,” he explained, which emphasizes that any increases in class size are not due to a sudden surge of students to the school.
Even with that teachers, especially IB teachers are acutely aware of the need to manage large classes effectively.
When asked about classroom management techniques, Kimberly Falvey, who teaches IB Geography and Psychology, discussed many ways she tries to include everyone, “I try to touch base with kids throughout the class,” she said. “As we get into more difficult topics, I will get into smaller groups to ensure I am able to touch base when confusion might show.”
Another point of debate has been the growing increase of free periods. Some believe that giving students the option of a free period instead of taking an elective could affect class size. “I think the access to free periods has drastically reduced the number of kids that are taking elective courses, especially in our arts and fine arts department.” Falvey said
Not all students share Falvey’s worries about the potential downsides of free periods and even she sees how they are beneficial. “I do not think free periods have that much impact on classes,” she said. “I think it’s really nice to have free periods, I know how exhausting it can be to have four classes in a day, and students with free periods are more stable throughout the day.”
Despite the concerns, DeRose suggested that free periods might not have as dramatic an effect on class sizes, especially elective courses. “The number of students who are given off-campus waivers from this year compared to last year is significantly less,” he said.
Compared to other FCPS schools like Langley High School, Annandale’s class sizes are generally on the lower side. However, because the square-footage of classrooms vary extremely in size, remember that classes may seem more cramped than they truly are.
