Smaller Classes for Elementary Students

Students in Primary and Grade 1 classrooms across the province are getting more individual attention and support in reading, math and other key subjects this year because of smaller classes. This is the second year of a provincial government plan that caps class sizes at 25 students in the early years.

Beechville Lakeside Timberlea School, one of the largest elementary schools in the province, is a good example of the benefits of smaller class sizes.

"I've taught classes with 35 students and believe me, having 10 fewer students makes a remarkable difference," said Lori White, a teacher at the school. "I have more one-on-one opportunities with my students and I'm able to organize more hands-on activities. Most importantly, I'm able to get to know my students and better understand their individual needs. Not only is that important to me as a teacher, it also contributes to the success of my students."

Grade Primary classes were capped at 25 in 2003-04 and the cap was extended to Grade 1 this year. The province is investing a total of $6 million in 2004-05, through its Learning for Life plan, to continue the reduction of class size.

"This is exactly the result we were looking for with the class size initiative," said Education Minister Jamie Muir during a visit to Beechville Lakeside Timberlea School. "The students in these classes are obviously benefiting from the extra attention these teachers are able to give. Smaller class sizes can make an enormous difference in a child's learning experience, especially in the early years."

Mike Sweeney, senior executive director of public schools, Department of Education, acknowledged some exceptions to the class size cap.

"We said from the start there would be exceptions and that school boards would have some flexibility," said Mr. Sweeney. "Some schools don't have the space to accommodate another class. In some cases boards decide to exceed the cap by one or two students rather than create a combined class. We follow up on each case but overall, we're very happy with our school boards' support of this initiative."

Many parents, teachers and education partners agree that reducing class size can have lasting academic benefits. In fact, the results of a recent public opinion poll, conducted by the Canadian Teachers' Federation (CTF), revealed the majority of Canadians believe there is a link between smaller class sizes and improved student performance.

"Teachers with small classes can spend time and energy helping each child succeed," said Terry Price, CTF president. "Smaller classes also enhance safety, discipline and order in the classroom. When qualified teachers teach smaller classes, kids learn more. It's simply common sense and studies show that it works to increase student achievement."

Grade 2 classes will be capped at 25 students next school year and by 2007, the goal is that no child in grades Primary to 4 will be in a class with more than 25 students. The plan also includes cap sizes of 20, or an additional adult in the classroom, for combined classes in the early grades. This will also apply to those classes with students with special needs who have an individual program plan.