Thanks to David Brauer for bringing up the referenda. We appreciate
Karen’s concerns about whether small class size really makes a
difference with student achievement. We can assure Minneapolis residents
that test data shows a positive correlation between low class size and
student achievement.
The MBST reading and math test passing rates for MPS students who have
been taught for seven years in smaller classrooms are almost double the
rate for students who have not had the benefit of reduced class size.
Those passing rates are higher across the board, for all groups of
students.
Graphics showing the difference are available at
http://www.mpls.k12.mn.us/district/referendum_class_size.shtml
Speaking as a parent of a recent public school graduate, I think test
scores only tell part of the story. The beauty of smaller class size is
that it allows teachers and students to connect in ways that they would
be unable to if there were an additional 10 students in the class. Low
class size allows teachers to individualize instruction and meet the
varied learning styles that exist in their classrooms. Smaller classes
allow students to be heard.
In a recent edition of the district's staff newsletter, Superintendent
Johnson shared the story of one teacher for whom lower class size has
made a difference. His story is representative of teachers and students
throughout the district.
Norm Hauer, a 6th grade teacher at Burroughs Community School, said,
“There is no doubt that with smaller class size you can get to know your
students quickly and more thoroughly. You can teach to them individually
— meet their individual needs instead of trying to aim your teaching to
the ‘broad middle’. It makes a huge difference even in the physical
plant. I've taught for years in this room, and I always have had my room
laid out about the same way. Before smaller class size, there would have
been a whole additional row with nine more chairs. That means much more
work to do — nine more students needing help, nine more papers to
correct each day, nine more tests to administer, nine more conferences.
Smaller classes allow us more time to spend with the students and more
time to prepare interesting departures from the lessons of the day.”
If the referendum is not renewed, class sizes across the district will
increase by about 10 students each. Several schools will close. Staff
will lose jobs and thousands of children all over the city will be
reassigned. Yet, as disruptive as that might be, an even greater loss
would be the loss of opportunity for teachers to build important
relationships with students and pay attention to their individual
learning needs.
More information, including tax impact information, is available at
http://www.mpls.k12.mn.us/district/referendum_update.shtml. You can also
call the district's Communications Department at 612-668-0230 and we
would be happy to provide additional information about the benefits of
low class size for student achievement.
--
Suzanne P. Kelly
Executive Director, Public Affairs
612-668-0230
http://www.mpls.k12.mn.us
Minneapolis Public Schools. Expect Great Things.
