Grassroots Group Trying to Stop Class Size Increases

A grassroots organization has sprung up in Pleasanton with the goal of stopping class sizes from increasing.

The group, called "Save Pleasanton Class Size Reduction," now has a website.  There is also a Facebook page. It's made up of concerned parents who vow to raise money through pledges.

School officials have said that budget cuts will likely force the Pleasanton Unified School District to increase class sizes for grades K-3 this coming fall from 25 students per class to around 30 students per class.

"Imagine 30 students per teacher," said resident Terri Ghio.

"I volunteer at Donlon (Elementary School) and I see first-hand the challenges teachers face in order to give 25 students individualized time and attention. It is not as easy as some would have you believe."

Pleasanton teachers and other employees agreed last week to give up $2 million in the form of furlough days and staff collaboration time to help with the ailing budget.

Still, district officials say there will be a need for further cuts.

The district is facing a $7.7 million shortfall for the 2011-12 school year, or more.

In three years, the district has cut $21 million to balance its budget.