Manatee County School Board decides whether to hire more teachers

In an effort to level out the number of students per teacher in Manatee County schools, the district is proposing a District Staffing Plan for the 2016-2017 school year.

The plan, which would roll out in August if approved, recommends hiring more teachers.

But how many?

The plan aims to make the ratio of students to teacher one teacher for 18 students in grades kindergarten through third and one teacher for 22 students in grade fourth and fifth. Additional art, music and physical education teachers are also needed for elementary schools countywide.

Elective courses at the middle school level also need more instructors, according to the plan.

The school board will vet the plan at a workshop from 2:30 to 5 p.m. and at its regular meeting, which starts at 5:45 p.m. tonight.

To view the plan, click here.