Thousands of teachers to vote on contracts a day before school begins

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The kids seem to be appreciative and excited to start class.

She’s also pleased with the agreement limiting class size.

SEATTLE — "It was for the kids. It wasn't for us. It was for them," said Catharine Burki, a fifth grade teacher.

Brianna Mears, who begins seventh grade on Wednesday, was nervous when teachers in the South Kitsap School District voted last week to strike.

“Now I’m happy school’s going to start on time,” Mears said.

“It means you’re able to listen closer to the teacher, and if there are trouble-makers in class, there aren’t as many,” she said.

The South Kitsap contract also looks into the future, as teachers explained they will eventually do away with “split classes,” where two grade levels share a classroom and a teacher.

The state’s Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction told KIRO 7 that there are no state recommendations for class sizes and no maximum limits. Class sizes are up to local school districts and the buildings’ fire codes.

The South Kitsap School District spokesperson said that everyone agrees on the goal of smaller classes, to give children more individualized attention.

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