Class Allocation – Dealing with Teacher Conflict
- Published: 21 May 2015
Class allocation can be one of the most challenging issues facing principals every year. The principal must weigh the options carefully, bearing in mind the wishes of teachers, the needs of the school or a particular class and other information particular to a school situation which may influence decisions. Ultimately, it is the principal’s duty to allocate classes. No matter who seeks to influence the decisions to be made, the final say rests with the principal.
Different types of school, as well as issues such as custom and practice, classes of extraordinary size or pupil needs all point towards one conclusion - there is no perfect way of going about the process of allocating classes. There are, however, common elements which apply to every school.
It is advisable to have a policy of staff moving to different classes after a number of years teaching the same class level. This allows for staff to develop their own professional experience across a range of classes. However if such a policy is not in place at this stage, it would be best to wait for the new school year to develop one in consultation with staff.
Change can help to freshen the thinking in certain areas, particularly around the implementation of new strategies. Many schools use a preference sheet where each teacher gets to select their first, second and third choice of class level. Normally the 5 categories used are Infants / 1st & 2nd / 3rd & 4th / 5th & 6th/ Support Teaching. A class preference template is available on www.ippn.ie. This is helpful to the principal in reaching a decision. Staff moves should not be announced at staff meetings without each person present knowing the class to which they are allocated beforehand. Some staff members may be disappointed with decisions. Discuss with the teacher any of the challenges facing them and possible supports they may need in their particular situation. No guarantees can be made to any staff member with regard to class allocation in the future as circumstances change constantly from one year to the next.
It may be agreed that decisions taken around staff allocation should be kept confidential amongst teachers until close to the end of the school year. This, however, is a matter to be decided by each school. Whatever arrangements are put in place, ensure that all staff are aware of and comply with the school procedure in this matter.
