School Trustees OK Reduced Class Sizes

Despite concerns about classroom space and state funding, Capistrano Unified School District trustees voted Monday to reduce the size of first- and second-grade classes to 20 students this fall.

The unanimous decision comes as the state Legislature debates two competing versions of Gov. Pete Wilson’s $460-million plan for reducing class sizes.

“I’m thrilled to see that the governor is coming forth with this idea,” Trustee Marlene Draper said. “We’ve talked about this for a long time.”

Wilson’s proposal would pay an additional $500 per student to schools that reduce class size to 20 students. The money is part of the $1.7 billion in state funds targeted for new education programs added to the budget because of Proposition 98.

Even though the district is not guaranteed the funds until Wilson signs the budget, Supt. James A. Fleming said it was prudent for the district to take action.

“We should be building up hopes and expectations on the part of the parents, educational community and teachers,” he said.

The district will spend $4.4 million of its $157 million for fiscal 1996-97 on cutting class sizes from the current average of 29 students. The money will be used primarily to hire nearly 100 teachers and to buy supplies and furniture for new classrooms.