Hire a new full-time kindergarten teacher at Fallsmead Elementary

191

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The Issue

As a parent of two children attending Fallsmead Elementary School in Rockville, Maryland, I'm concerned with the large Kindergarten class sizes. I've recently learned of the struggles and frustrations that have stemmed from oversized Kindergarten class sizes. Our children deserve the best education and care, and the current shortage of Kindergarten teachers is a roadblock to this fundamental right.

Fallsmead Elementary, known for its commitment to nurturing young minds, is currently stretched thin. The kindergarten student-to-teacher ratio has increased beyond the ideal level, leading to overcrowded classrooms, stressed teachers, and students who are not receiving the individual attention they need to thrive. 

According to the National Education Association, the ideal student-to-teacher ratio for K-3 should not exceed  20:1. Unfortunately, at Fallsmead, the Kindergarten ratio for all three classes is between 25:1 and 26:1. Research by the American Educational Research Association suggests that reducing class size has significant impacts on student achievement, especially in early grades where foundational skills are developed. Yet, our children remain at a disadvantage as they vie for attention in large classes.

The solution is clear and achievable: hire a new full-time Kindergarten teacher at Fallsmead Elementary School. This will not only alleviate the current pressure on existing staff but will also ensure every student receives the personalized education they need and deserve. By doing so, we can uphold Fallsmead's tradition of excellence and strengthen our children's future.

I'm reaching out to the Montgomery County School Board and to Superintendent Dr. Thomas Taylor to address this issue urgently. Our community thrives when our schools do, and investing in a new teacher is investing in our children’s futures. Let's come together as parents, educators, and citizens to make this change happen.

I urge you to sign this petition. Let's show our school officials that we care deeply about our children's education and future. They need us to act now! Please join me in calling for the immediate hiring of a new full-time Kindergarten teacher at Fallsmead Elementary. Together, we can make a difference.

The Decision Makers

Montgomery County Public School Board
3 Members
1 Responded
Karla Silvestre
Montgomery County Public School Board - At Large
“I have reviewed the petition and will inquire on what can be done. -Karla [Note: The Change.org Civic Engagement Team reaches out to decision makers to let them know about petitions in their community and to help facilitate engagement with supporters. The above was an email response we received regarding this petition.]”
Rita Montoya
Montgomery County Public School Board - At Large
Natalie Zimmerman
Montgomery County Public School Board - District 2

Petition Updates