Combined Classes

We are excited to share that we have added combined classes for students in grades 4-6 starting in Sept 2023 (students in grades 2 and 3 were already in combined classes). You will learn which class your child is in on August 30 at our Meet YOUR Teacher event. For families that are unable to attend, the classroom teacher will send an email welcoming your child to their classroom. We have put together a list of commonly asked questions to help you understand the benefits of combined classes.  

What is a combined class? 

A combined class is one that includes students from two consecutive grades in one setting. A variety of instructional groupings and combinations depending on the students, the learning objectives and resources being used. 

Why are combined classes created? 

·         Organizing classes to meet student learning needs 

·         Balance class size and class composition 

·         Effective use of instructional time and supports. 

What is the goal for adding combined classes?  

To meet individual student learning needs and combined classes will help us to achieve this through a variety of benefits.  

What are the benefits of a combined classroom? 

As part of our wellness goal, we have been working on building positive interactions and relationships between students. A combined classroom gives students more opportunities for peer interaction across different grade levels.  Research based benefits of combined classes include:

·         Increased development of social skills as students interact with other age groups and start to develop a greater self concept.  

·         Combined classes are well suited for today’s wide range of learners because teachers provide multiple pathways for learning; all students can experience growth and success.  

·         Flexibility of groupings. Students are assessed throughout the year and the teacher plans accordingly to meet their needs using small group instruction and intervention. In a combined class, students will be grouped together from different grade levels, creating opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate leadership skills. This will help to prepare students for real life scenarios.  

·         Multi age classroom resembles a family unit, creating different opportunities for leadership and an increased sense of wellbeing.   

·         Some students may benefit from staying with the same teacher for two years in a row, thus limiting transitions, enhancing relationships and building deeper connections for learning. 

·         Learn by teaching – students have power through the ability to help others.  

·         Learning through observation – students at different skill levels can learn from those that are more advanced in their academics.  

·         Research from Joel Gajadharsingh, professor emeritus of education at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon states that students in combined grades “do just as well, if not better” academically, thanks to repetition and exposure to another grade. He adds that their ability to behave and get along with others is also superior. They’re more independent, confident, responsible, dependable, respectful, collaborative and — if you haven’t heard enough already — even tend to develop better study habits, regardless of whether they’re in the younger or older grade. 

Will students be taught in two different groups in the same classroom? 

The intention is not to teach two separate groups within the same class, rather using different teaching strategies to teach the whole class concepts and skills in literacy and numeracy while tailoring specific work to meet individual needs and grade level. In some cases, it will be necessary to explore ways to deliver individual grade level curriculum, but the intention is not to teach two separate groups within the same class. 

What is the class structure we will have?  

 
Are grades 4-6 being combined because of a budget reduction? 

No, we are being funded at the same (per student) amount that we were funded for in the last school year. We have experienced an unbalanced enrolment and combined classes will help us to balance the classes.  

How will I hear about how my child is doing in school?  

The new curriculum is skill based and teachers will communicate the development of those skills through student led conferences, parent teacher interviews, new goal setting conferences in October, regular updates on Edsby, and on report cards. We recommend that all families use Edsby on a regular basis to communicate with their child’s teacher. 

We are committed to developing and supporting all learners. We understand that this may bring up thoughts for families and we are happy to answer your questions over the summer. Please contact us via email Principal, natosha.mastel@sd76.ab.ca or Vice Principal,  adele.henderson@sd76.ab.ca