Educators discuss multigrade classrooms and equitable student placements in GoodView schools

The Winona Area Public School District's recent school board meeting on May 15, 2025, focused on the implementation of split sessions in classrooms and the importance of equity in education.

During the meeting, Director Stiknick raised questions about the mechanics of split sessions, which combine different grade levels in a single classroom. He explained that this approach is not new and is commonly used in many educational settings. For instance, at GoodView School, first and second graders are taught together due to class size constraints. This model allows teachers to address a wide range of student needs, enhancing differentiation in instruction.

Stiknick acknowledged the challenges and anxieties that arose when this model was first introduced but emphasized the skill of the teaching staff in managing multi-age classrooms effectively. He noted that principals and teachers play a significant role in forming class lists and ensuring that students are placed in configurations that best suit their learning needs.

The discussion also touched on the concept of equity in education. Stiknick highlighted that while achieving equal numbers in classrooms is a goal, true equity involves considering the unique circumstances of individual students. He provided an example of a student with mobility challenges transitioning to a different school with better accessibility features, illustrating that equity goes beyond mere numerical equality.

The meeting underscored the district's commitment to adapting educational practices to meet diverse student needs while fostering an inclusive environment. As the school year progresses, the district aims to refine its approach to split sessions and continue addressing equity in its educational framework.