POLL: Full Day First and Second Grade

Earlier this week, the Burlingame School District Board of Trustees voted to eliminate the early bird/late bird program for first and second graders in favor of full day classes.

While board members argued that more class time will lead to higher achievement, citing test score increases when third grade switched to full day, some parents countered that larger classes would reduce small group instruction, thereby hurting student progress.

Board members said they have gone through copious amounts of data on full day programs and student achievement and are certain full day is the right move, especially after hearing support from all of the district principals.

Some parents, however, said specialized attention to students in small groups was most important, especially at such a young age when there are such varying degrees of skill in a classroom. Furthermore, they argued that they gave to BCE and voted for Measure E in order to maintain smaller class sizes. They thought they were working with district officials to achieve these goals, but now feel their concerns are being overlooked.

Teachers remain split on the issue. While all those that spoke at Tuesday's meeting spoke in favor of full day, Assistant Superintendent Jud Kempson said that in meetings with first and second grade teachers, about half remained unsure.

What do you think? Take our poll and share your thoughts in the comments box below.