This fall, after years of planning, the multi-age classroom will mix kindergarten and first grade students, with a combined curriculum. The new offering became a reality after an increase in state aid helped the district to hire another teacher. Pfeifer, a Benson native who graduated from Concordia College, had taught first grade at Renville County West for three years but was a victim of budget cuts this year. She said she is a strong believer in the multi-age concept and thinks her teaching style - emphasizing small groups and learning centers - will fit it well. She will be working closely with Rachel Nelson, the other multi-age classroom teacher, to develop the curriculum and to do planning. They also plan to have joint milk breaks for their classes and to hold joint exercises.