Class size and school choice were a hot topic at the Mattapoisett’s School Committee on Monday.

Throughout the school year, the committee has discussed allowing enrollment of out of district students through the state’s school choice program as a way of generating income for the elementary schools’ budget.

As the committee prepares to vote on school choice at its May meeting, several parents voiced concern over increasing class sizes.

Next year, the sixth grade will reduce the number of teachers from four to three, with a teacher being added to the first grade.

“They had only three teachers when they were third graders. Because of great teachers they survived it, but there was a lot of waiting and discontentment among the kids,” said Penny Cole, the parent of a fifth grader.

With 24 students per class projected for next year’s sixth grade, Cole and other parents questioned what the committee would do to keep classes small with the possibility of influxes as families move into the area.

Based on their performance in the past, Old Hammondtown School Principal Matt D’Andrea said he was sure the three teachers were up to the task. “We have multiple resources that go into the classroom. I’m completely confident that no students’ education would be compromised,” he said.

In light of the fact that the committee already approved the 2014 budget, Chair James Higgins also said adding more teachers could be complicated.

“I have an incoming sixth grader and I was concerned,” said Higgins. After speaking with D’Andrea and Superintendent Doug White, he said he felt more assured. “At this time I’m going to trust Matt and Doug and hope that 24 stays at 24.”

If class sizes were to exceed 25, White said adjustments would need to be made.

“If there is an influx of students who move into the area, we take a look at that and make adjustments and use our resources differently if need be,” White said.

But regarding school choice, Higgins said any openings were likely to be made at the kindergarten level.

“Overall, I’m in favor of school choices,” said Higgins. “Most grades have class sizes of around 20. I don’t think one student per class is a negative or a deterrent to accepting school choice. It would be a net gain in revenue.”

But committee member Charles Motta said he saw more advantage for school choice students at the high school level rather than the elementary level.

“I would like to go on record saying I do not support school choice,” said Motta. “I don’t see much of an advantage.”

The committee will vote on school choice next month.