COMBINATION AND NONGRADED CLASSES - DEFINITIONS AND FREQUENCY IN 12 STATES

In this study we examined the frequency of combination and nongraded c lasses in 12 states as well as changes in the use of combination class es during several years prior to the study. 571 elementary school prin cipals responded to a survey about their traditional (age graded) and nontraditional (combination and nongraded) classes. Although combinati on classes represented 17% of the classrooms in California, most state s contained 3%-7% of these classes-a percentage far lower than reporte d in Canada, England, and other European countries. Nongraded classes were rarely used (0%-.8%). Of the 10,262 classes, 9,779 (95.3%) consis ted of a single grade, 454 (4.4%) were 2- or 3-grade combinations, and 29 (.3%) were nongraded. Differences are presented by state, area (ur ban, suburban, or rural), school size, and calendar type (traditional or year-round). Implications for policy and research are discussed.