Smaller class sizes in kindergarten through 3rd grade are funded by the state at a staff ratio of roughly one teacher per every 18 students. However, not all districts have availed themselves of this funding by hiring more teachers for the youngest grades.
Funding is provided for districts that are reducing class size in the lowest grades.
Staff mix refers to the experience and education levels of the staff, with higher levels earning more salary. The budget contains an assumption of increased staff mix. School district data from the 1997-98 school year data indicate the increase in staff mix is lower than anticipated.