What is a multiage class? Any class comprising of more than one age or grade level is often mistaken as a multiage class, when in fact, it may be a split class or a combined class, put together to solve number bulges in the school population. As long as the teacher is grouping the children according to their age or grade for instruction, assignments, and expectations, the multiage concept will be non-existent. Another common mistake is when school staffs intentionally place low performing older students in a class with high performing younger students. This action, based on teaching for sameness is not beneficial for students. The social stigma of being placed in such a class clearly identifies children as 'smart' or 'slow' (depending on their age) making it uncomfortable for children to socialize within the school community and to develop a healthy self esteem. A successful multiage class is formed by placing together a balance of numbers of students of different age groups with a range of achievement levels. The teacher plans instruction and assessment expecting and celebrating diversity within the class.