The penalty for class size violations is so high because the fine is not based on the number of rule-breaking schools. Instead, it's calculated using the average daily attendance for TK students in the entire school district, leading to a particularly harsh penalty for the largest school system in California. The state requires the annual staffing audits but does not require that districts divulge the names of the scofflaw schools. “Last year was a hot mess,” said Hanna, who helps organize a group of about 80 LAUSD TK teachers and heard frequent complaints from teachers who didn’t have an aide. “I think it’s quite clear these were exceptional cases and not evidence of a broader issue,” said LAUSD school board member Kelly Gonez, who chairs the early education committee.

Source: Los Angeles Times June 07, 2024 10:16 UTC