GROUPING FOR INSTRUCTION

GROUPING FOR INSTRUCTION

Any decision pertaining to grouping for instruction will be made for the express purposes of increasing instructional effectiveness and maximizing the use of resources available. Grouping will be used to enhance a student's ability to learn, to offer intellectual challenges to students of all ability levels and to facilitate planning and instruction for the teacher.

The Board of Education does not endorse any particular method of grouping. Rather, grouping should accommodate different types of learning and instruction. Decisions on grouping shall be based on consideration of:

1. the student's best opportunity for school success;
2. the educational achievement level of each student;
3. the availability of space, materials, equipment and staff, and
4. the welfare of the student.

Grouping within a grade-level shall not necessarily be permanent, and staff shall avoid any "labeling" of groups. Grouping arrangements should promote flexibility to meet students' changing needs and achievements. The Building Principal shall confer with parents, teachers and other appropriate staff when placement of a student in a particular instructional group is under consideration.

Within a classroom, teachers are encouraged to informally group students for special projects and interests, or to better address different instructional levels within a content area.

Ref: 8 NYCRR §200.6