Transforming Learning: We Have A Low Teacher-To-Student Ratio

One of the major challenges facing U.S. schools is class sizes. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, elementary school classrooms nationwide averaged 20.9 students in 2017-2018. However, studies show that having a low teacher-to-student ratio promotes better academic learning, positive life outcomes, and good health. 

At The Foundations School, we ensure that our class sizes are small so that individualized learning can happen. “Learning is personal,” said Kevin Kovacs, CCE Director of Schools. “So, the smaller we can get our class size, the more personal we can make the learning.”

Our students’ academic achievements show how this investment has paid off. Last month, we reported that our students at The Foundations School are meeting and exceeding expectations when it comes to literacy development. Almost all our students are showing improvement, but there are a few that stood out for their growth. 

Joshua is a third grader who improved three developmental reading levels—that’s an entire grade level—in just five months. His classmates Zarianna and Jakaya improved two developmental reading levels and went from approaching grade level to reading on grade level. 

Ms. Sepúlveda, our third grade teacher at The Foundations School, talked about how she divides her class into reading groups based on their levels and is able to work with each of them on their individual struggles.

“I think it’s just because of the small class size and I’m able to meet with them so often,” Ms. Sepúlveda said. “I think that really is what helped.”

A low teacher-to-student ratio is critical to fulfilling our mission at The Foundations School. Through this tool, we are better able to meet the needs of our students academically and personally.