Reynolds school directors Wednesday approved re-instating two elementary instructional support teachers.

The board will create the positions by restructuring the current staff of elementary school teachers.

The district used instructional support teachers two years ago but did not use them last year because class sizes were larger and the district couldn't spare the additional staff, said Superintendent Dr. Anthony Trosan. This year lower class sizes allow for the two positions.

"We're trying to use our staff as efficiently as possible," Trosan said.

Elementary school co-principals Brian Bronson and Barbara Clawson gave a presentation to the board prior to voting to explain how instructional support teachers are beneficial.

Instructional support teachers target students who are having difficulties that the classroom teacher may not have time to address on an individual basis. These problems may include underachieving in above-average students, poor classroom performance, speech or language problems, behavioral problems and emotional issues.

In some cases, working with an instructional support teacher may prevent a child from having to take special education classes.

"This is something we strongly believe will benefit those children who end up not going to special education," Bronson said.

An instructional support teacher takes the student out of class and works with them intensely for a 30 day period. Bronson compared the teachers to "mechanics" who "troubleshoot" problems.

"We've seen it be very successful," Bronson said.

Of the students who used the instructional support teachers during the 1999-2000 school year, 93 percent met their target goals, Bronson said. Only 7 percent had to go on to special education, he said.

"So it has a proven track record of success," Bronson said.

Trosan said he supported re-instating the positions.

"I've seen what IST can do ... there is a population of students here who will benefit," Trosan said.