My daughter is currently in a kindergarten class of 22 students at Stillman Elementary School, with only one teacher and no assistant aid. This overwhelming student-to-teacher ratio is far from ideal and is detrimental to her and other young students' learning experience. Early education is crucial for shaping our children's future, and we must ensure that they receive the attention and resources necessary for success.

Why This Matters to Tenafly:

Instructional Quality: According to Board Policy 2312, class sizes should be governed by "instructional quality". Research indicates that class sizes of 18 or fewer in grades K-3 are critical for individualized attention and foundational literacy.  According to a study by the National Education Policy Center, reducing class sizes allows teachers to provide more individualized attention, tailor instruction to diverse learning styles, and manage classroom behavior more effectively. This leads to improved academic outcomes, a more supportive learning environment, and reduced teacher burnout.

Maintaining Excellence: Tenafly is recognized as a top-rated district. To maintain this standing, our student-teacher ratios must remain competitive with other high-performing districts that already utilize strict caps for K-3.

Teacher Support: The current class size of 22 students per teacher at Stillman Elementary School poses a significant barrier to achieving high standard outcomes. With one teacher and no assistant aid, it's nearly impossible for educators to address the varying needs of every student. 

Requested Action:

We urge the Board to direct the Superintendent to update the district’s class size guidelines to reflect a firm cap for grades K-3 and to include staffing needs for more teacher aids in the upcoming budget cycle. Furthermore, we request that an aid be added immediately to assist teachers currently in classes over 18 students in K-3. Our young learners deserve the best possible start to their education, and smaller class sizes are an essential part of this equation.

Join me in advocating for this essential reform by signing this petition.

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our youngest learners and ensure academic excellence at Stillman Elementary School.