Colfax school staff, parents hash out first grade class size

A record low enrollment for first graders has Colfax school staff and parents struggling with a class size that could be too large for one teacher but too small for two.

Staff are seeking options to downsize the existing class of 28 or change teaching duties.

The total first grade class in Colfax was predicted by the administration to be 24 students this year; 28 ended up enrolling.

The extra four students stretch the teacher-to-student ratio and parents at a school board meeting Monday protested the size, saying it strains learning and presents safety issues.

First-grade teacher Bev Stubbers...