AL HB209

Establishes maximum class size limits by grade level beginning with the 2017-2018 school year: 15 students per teacher for prekindergarten to grade 3, 22 students per teacher for grades 4-8, and 25 students per teacher for grades 9-12.

Requires a phased implementation beginning with the 2013-2014 fiscal year, reducing average classroom sizes by at least 2 students per year until maximum limits are met.

Makes the state responsible for funding all costs associated with achieving these class size reductions, exempting local school systems from bearing these expenses.

Excludes extracurricular classes from the class size requirements.

Becomes effective immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor.