The Massapequa School District has approved a proposal to move sixth-grade classes up from elementary school to middle school.

A school board meeting was held Tuesday night on the proposal to move all the district's sixth-graders to Alfred G. Berner Middle School. The measure was approved by a vote of 3 to 2.

Superintendent Lucille Iconis says the move will expand educational opportunities for sixth-graders by including foreign languages, science labs and technology studies not possible in elementary school.

Opponents question the plan's educational benefits, cost and the potential for overcrowding. Some are concerned that sixth-graders may not be emotionally ready for the adjustment.

The change is expected to go into effect in September 2017.