North Albany Elementary Families:   We Need Your Voice!

Due to staffing reductions made by Greater Albany Public Schools, North Albany Elementary has lost 2.5 teaching positions. As a result, they are being forced to increase class sizes and create blended-grade classrooms!

These staffing cuts will lead to class sizes approaching or exceeding 30 students before new students even enroll, as well as the creation of blended classrooms in both the primary and intermediate grades. This is deeply troubling.

Historically, our school has a strong retention rate and an ability to attract students; with our enrollment consistently growing as students progress through the grades.

At North Albany Elementary, smaller class sizes—especially in the early grades—have been a cornerstone of student success. Decades of educational research demonstrate that early literacy development is most effective in smaller, consistent classroom environments.

Studies have found that smaller class sizes are associated with stronger teacher-student relationships, improved classroom climate, and better social-emotional outcomes. In a state currently struggling with mental health issues, and with a Governor who has prioritized better mental health outcomes, larger classes will not only hinder social-emotional development, but are also a step in the wrong direction in supporting long-term positive mental health outcomes for our children!

Blended classrooms in upper grades, while sometimes appropriate in specific contexts, should not be implemented as a cost-saving measure that stretches teachers beyond reasonable capacity. As even district leaders in that same report acknowledged, blending grades is often one of the fastest ways to save money—but one that comes with educational trade-offs that many leaders consider too costly for student learning.

At the May 18, 2026 Board Meeting, Superintendent Gardener stated (22:38) that the budget was not yet finalized and that changes could still be made. Since then, a budget meeting has occurred where it has been approved, but we are still asking you to act on that statement. We are especially concerned that these cuts are being proposed while the district maintains an approximate 11% surplus, exceeding the 8% reserve outlined in district bylaws. We have learned that the band teacher at NAMS has been filled back to 1.0 and other staffing has been filled using the surplus.  At a time when resources are available, it is unacceptable for our students to be placed in overcrowded classrooms that undermine their educational experience.

Our classrooms—such as 4th grade, 4/5 blends, and 5th grade—would need to reach 35 or more students before the district would even consider allocating additional certified staff! This approach is not only unreasonable, it is detrimental to both students and educators.

North Albany Elementary is a school that is working. The data reflects strong student progress and achievement. The district frequently asks how it can improve outcomes and ensure students succeed on standardized assessments. The answer is clear:  small class sizes and stable classroom structures are a proven strategy. North Albany is already demonstrating this success.

We want the board to reconsider these staffing reductions immediately. If something is working, it should be protected—not dismantled.

Our children deserve classrooms where they are seen, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive—not environments where they are overcrowded and overlooked. We ask that you invest in what is already proven to work by restoring these teaching positions now.