Therefore, attention to staff development while addressing class-size reduction goals will assure maximum benefits for students. Students in smaller classes show more apprecia- tion for one another and more desire to participate in classroom activities. In smaller classes, more learning activities take place. Smaller classes foster greater interaction among students, helping them understand one another and increasing their desire to assist one another. Smaller classes allow for potential disciplinary problems to be identified and resolved more quickly.
Smaller classes result in higher teacher morale and reduced stress.
Fewer retentions, fewer referrals to special education, and fewer dropouts are the ultimate rewards of class-size reduction. Districts may demonstrate progress toward this goal in a variety of ways. Write a plan for ongoing staff development to assist teachers as they modify instructional techniques to take advantage of reduced class size. These efforts may include such experiences as conference attendance, inservice courses, college courses, teacher support groups, and writing projects. Collect evidence of support for teacher examination, development, and implementation of effective classroom practices that increase the frequency and quality of teacher-student interactions intended to improve students' language competency.