Imagine, as a parent, watching your child go to school eager and ready to learn, only to see them struggle in an overcrowded classroom. As a mother of such a child, this is my reality every day. The teachers - all superb educators - are spread incredibly thin among the 90 kindergarten students at our school, Emerson Elementary. Given that there are only three kindergarten teachers with a total of 90 students, it is an uphill struggle to establish a productive learning environment. No child or teacher should be burdened with such demanding circumstances, especially at the kindergarten level. In the handbook for Emerson elementary. Under school wide behavior expectation. States educate All students. How are the teachers supposed to educate all students if there are not enough resources to do so. 
UPDATE AS OF AUGUST 8th. They are in the process of hiring a new teacher. 
However, this issue isn't unique to Emerson Elementary - it's a district-wide concern. Multiple schools in Mesa are struggling with similar student-to-teacher ratios. This makes for an unproductive learning environment, not because teachers aren't determined or skilled, but because there simply aren't enough of them to manage such large groups. Especially in early years like kindergarten, one-on-one time is critical to a child's development.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, Arizona ranks near the top in terms of class size with an average of 25 students - well above the national average. This high student-to-teacher ratio reduces the effectiveness of teachers and learning outcomes in students.

We must demand a change. For our children's sake, for our teachers, and for the future of education in our Mesa, AZ community. We are urging the Public School District to implement a reasonable maximum student-to-teacher ratio across all classes. This is an investment in our children – in their future and ours.

We must ensure quality education for all. By doing so, we help our children develop crucial skills, build strong foundations, and promote a lifelong love of learning. Uphold your duty to our children and to education. Implement a maximum student-to-teacher ratio in Mesa Public Schools.

Please, sign this petition and stand with us in advocating a better learning environment for our children.