File:  IIA - GROUPING/SCHEDULING FOR INSTRUCTION

Instructional grouping practices will help meet the varying needs of students and create a positive learning climate when such practices maintain high standards and expectations for all students. The purpose of assigning students to instructional groups must be to maximize the educational opportunities for the students by adjusting the methods, materials, and/or pacing of instruction.

Grouping practices must be constantly reviewed to ensure that the following criteria are met:

1. There is an identified instructional purpose for every group assignment.

2. High expectations are defined and communicated to students and parents in all instructional groups.

3. Each student's group placement is reviewed frequently to evaluate the effectiveness of the group placement on achievement.

4. Placement of all students in instructional groups is the result of multiple assessments directly associated with the academic objectives of the group.

5. No group assignment is permanent.

All students in the Framingham Schools will have equal access to quality education; however, this does not necessarily mean identical educational experiences. The appropriate and effective use of instructional grouping is necessary to achieve the goal.

CROSS REF.:  AC, Nondiscrimination