The Impact of Class-Size Mandates on New York City Schools
In a recent development, six parents on the city Department of Education’s class-size taskforce have dissented from the majority’s recommendations for implementing a pernicious state mandate. These dissenters have called out the mandate as disruptive, costly, and harmful to high-poverty schools. The majority’s recommendations, on the other hand, appeased the United Federation of Teachers (UFT), which was responsible for getting the NYC-only mandate passed in the first place.
Focusing on Grades K-3
The dissenters rightly noted that the evidence on class size and learning outcomes is weak. They urged that the mandate should instead focus on grades K-3, where studies have revealed some impact. This targeted approach would ensure that resources are directed where they can make the most difference.
Empowering School Leadership Teams
In a rebuke to the UFT, the dissenters recommended that school leadership teams, which include parents, should be the ones to approve class-size-reduction plans and exemptions. This shift in decision-making power from teachers and principals unions to school leadership teams would ensure that the voices of parents and other stakeholders are heard and considered.
Reforming the Law
The dissenters also urged reforms to the law itself. They proposed changing class-size caps to “average” class sizes to grant schools more flexibility. This change would allow schools to adapt to their specific needs while still ensuring reasonable class sizes. Additionally, they advocated for honoring parent choice over enrollment caps at schools offering popular programs, such as gifted and talented (G&T) programs. Finally, they emphasized the importance of preventing successful small schools from being forced to merge, preserving the unique educational opportunities they provide.
It is worth noting that the left-leaning Urban Institute has also criticized the mandate, highlighting its potential negative impact on equity for the city’s neediest students. The unfunded class-size reduction demand is projected to cost the city an extra $2 billion a year and require the hiring of at least 17,700 additional teachers by the 2027-28 school year. The Department of Education estimates that reducing class sizes in K-5 alone will cost $500 million.
Potential Consequences
While limiting class sizes may sound like a grand idea, especially for academically struggling children, there are potential consequences to consider. The mandate could result in these children being assigned to new and inexperienced teachers, while veteran educators exercise their seniority privileges to opt for easier jobs. This could potentially hinder the quality of education provided to those who need it the most.
Furthermore, the UFT stands to benefit from the mandate by gaining more dues-paying members despite declining enrollments. Additionally, the requirement for more classroom space makes it easier for the UFT to deny charter-school applications for that space, further consolidating their influence.
A Stand for Families and Children
The Group of Six parents who dissented from the majority’s recommendations deserve New Yorkers’ collective gratitude for standing up to the UFT and advocating for families and children. By challenging the status quo and highlighting the potential negative consequences of the mandate, they have demonstrated their commitment to prioritizing the needs of students over vested interests.
