Scores prove need for smaller class sizes

Wednesday, March 4, 1998

Scores prove need for smaller class sizes

CLASSROOMS: Teachers cannot be expected to give each child due
attention under crowded conditions

When one teacher is expected to teach a class of more than 40
students, chances are some students will get overlooked. And when
students are neglected, their academic development is adversely
affected. Thus, it is important for lawmakers to work on cutting
down class sizes to help foster growth for the millions of students
across the nation.

In the Third International Mathematics and Science Study,
students from over 21 countries took a math and science test. Of
the 21 participating nations, American high school seniors ranked
very low. This can be partially attributed to the overcrowded
conditions in classrooms, in which teachers are unable to address
individual concerns or problems students may have.

With class sizes often exceeding 40 students, there is a need to
decrease student-to-teacher ratios. In the past few years, school
districts that have reduced their K-3 classes from over 30 down to
22 students have seen higher standardized test scores.

During the 1996-1997 school year, average test scores of
low-income first-graders in Wisconsin classes with 15 students
increased 12 to 14 percent more than the scores of students in
regular-size classes. Scores for African American males attending
small classes increased by over 40 percent more than the scores of
African American males in larger ones. These impressive figures are
a testament to the importance of class-size reduction and the
worthiness of investing tax dollars on reducing sizes of other K-3
classes.

The Tennessee Student/Teacher Achievement Ratio program also
found that children in small classes benefited academically.

The crucial stage for children is in grades K-3. During this
time children are developing behavioral as well as academic skills.
Throughout these years, children need constant attention and
guidance in all settings, especially in the classrooms. Research
has revealed that when students are neglected in the classrooms, it
can have far-reaching negative consequences in their academic,
social and cognitive development. This can be prevented by cutting
class sizes down so that teachers can devote more of their energy
and time to assisting those students who are experiencing problems
in school.

Opponents of class-size reduction cite a lack of money or the
unwillingness to dole out money as the problem.

In Pennsylvania, tax dollars spent on cutting class sizes
equaled $8 per person to ensure that their children would be well
prepared for the 21st century. This is a minor price that yields
enormous results.

Education must not be placed on the back burner. Students,
especially young children in grades K-3, need special attention and
guidance that only can be provided in small classroom settings. One
of the biggest obstacles facing education is the difficulty in
securing adequate funding. In light of the recent study that
revealed America’s education system is lagging, it’s time to
re-evaluate our priorities. And it starts with the education of
children. There should be no debate about providing the best for
our children, whatever financial burdens might be incurred, because
education is too important to be compromised.