Pingtung elementary schools cut classes amid falling birth rates; class size unchanged

Elementary schools in Pingtung County, Taiwan, continue to face declining enrollment, a trend attributed to the island's low birth rate. For the upcoming 115th academic year, elementary schools will have 1748 classes, a decrease of 10 classes from the previous year. This follows a similar reduction in the 114th academic year, reflecting a sustained downward trend in student numbers.

In contrast, junior high schools in the county have seen a modest increase in class numbers over the past three years. This rise is partly influenced by the "Year of the Dragon" zodiac effect, which historically leads to a temporary surge in births. However, the rate of increase is reportedly diminishing.

Despite the declining numbers in elementary schools, the Pingtung County Government's Department of Education has announced that the average class size will remain unchanged. Currently, both junior high and elementary schools operate with an average of 28 students per class. The department indicated that this student-to-teacher ratio will not be adjusted at this time.

The Education Department is focusing on alternative strategies to manage the impact of declining enrollment. These include promoting a "university zone" policy to enhance educational choices, encouraging schools to develop unique curricula, and supporting schools in transforming into experimental education institutions. These measures aim to maintain educational quality and diversity amidst demographic shifts.