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CMS says multi-grades in one classroom works

By Dedrick Russell - bio l email

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) - One CMS elementary school has 3rd, 4th and 5th graders all learning in one classroom.  Administrators at Tuckaseegee Elementary claim this method works.

There are three classrooms full of multi grades at the school. We visited each classroom to see this form of learning in action.

Kelly Neelon likes this teaching arrangement, despite the fact she has to work harder to plan lessons that will engage all her students.

"It does take a lot of commitment" Tuckaseegee ES Teacher Kelly Neelon said.

About 75 students are in this magnet program.  It's the only one of its kind in Charlotte - Mecklenburg schools. Students say this unique form of learning challenges them and offers them leadership skills.

"Not only am I learning," Fifth grader Mikala Craft said.  "I'm having a chance to teach it, because sometimes I can help out the younger kids."

Teachers have to think outside the box.  Neelon says she can challenge 3rd and 4th graders but she has to do extra to keep 5th graders engaged.

"Math is the biggest challenge for that," Neelon said.  "But we work. We get books from 6th grade.  We can get access to that curriculum."

The school is looking to expand this program.