FOR RELEASE
Contact: David Thomas
(202) 401-1576
May 8, 1998
NEW STUDY SHOWS SMALLER CLASSES ENHANCE ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
Smaller is better, according to a new report summarizing existing research on reducing class size, and smaller classes in the early grades lead to higher student achievement.
President Clinton cited the study today during his appearance before the Delaware State Legislature. Clinton said the study provides further support for his initiative to reduce class size in grades 1-3 to a nationwide average of 18. The president has proposed a $12 billion investment that would be available to local communities over seven years to help their schools provide small classes with well prepared teachers in the early grades.
"Reducing class size makes common sense," said U.S. Secretary of Education Richard W. Riley. "As this research shows, it will not only make sure every child gets more personal attention but also will improve discipline in classrooms, raise student achievement and help give our young people a solid foundation in the critical early grades. The President's proposal to reduce class size is a thoughtful approach which ensures that students will be taught by qualified, well prepared teachers."
Reducing Class Size: What Do We Know?, released today by the U.S. Department of Education, provides three overall conclusions:
o Research shows that smaller classes promote student achievement in the early grades. The significant effects of class size reduction on student achievement appear when class size is reduced to a point between 15 and 20 students.
o If class size is reduced from substantially more than 20 students per class to below 20 students, the related increase in student achievement moves the average student from the 50th percentile up to above the 60th percentile. For disadvantaged and minority students the effects are larger.
o Students, teachers, and parents report positive effects from the impact of class size reductions on the quality of classroom activity.
The study shows that 25 states already have started or are considering some sort of class size reduction initiative.
Reducing Class Size: What Do We Know? can be obtained from the National Library of Education at 1-800-424-1616, or by downloading it from the website at http://www.ed.gov/pubs/ReducingClass/.
###