Simple common sense would suggest that small class size is virtually always better for a given student. After all, if there are fewer students in the classroom, the teacher will obviously have a greater opportunity to work with each child.
And research confirms that smaller class sizes indeed yield academic advantages. This is especially true at the elementary and middle school levels, and the evidence suggests it is even more beneficial for boys. There is some debate as to WHY this is so, but the results are inescapable.
The most often cited reasons for these positive results are:
In another application of simple common sense, just look at any of the top prep and/or boarding schools in the US. All these elite schools promise small class sizes. In fact, it is generally one of the most prominent things they say about themselves.
Some of these highly-rated schools have been around since the 1700s and they have been getting it right since day one. They are acknowledged to the best of the best. And if the best of the best insist on small class sizes, there is clearly something to it.
An interesting article at ClassSizeMatters.org discusses numerous studies and points out how the studies identify a number of positive trends associated with small class sizes, including:
National surveys of educators indicate they believe that smaller class size is “the most effective method to improve the quality of teaching.”
A study by the National Council of Teachers of English defines a “small class” as one made up of fewer than 20 students. This study also discusses the academic gains associated with smaller class sizes, but it goes on to tout prominently that:
While the benefits of small class sizes are commonly associated with private schools, a separate study focusing on public schools also points out the following benefits of smaller class sizes:
It is of course true that small class size is not the only variable at work. The following factors also contribute to the gains observed:
There are also studies that discuss the effect of overall school size (i.e. and not just the class size) on academic achievement. Most research points to an inverse relationship between school size and achievement. One such study out of North Carolina, citing three other separate studies, concludes flatly that “smaller elementary schools tend to have higher achievement.”
There is a strong consensus that small class size is one of the leading factors that will lead to improved academic performance, especially for elementary and middle school students. And most especially for boys.
Yet the benefits of small class size are more wide-ranging than simply improved academic performance. It is clear there are additional long-term benefits that stay with students through high school and college, and into their adult lives.
"This is such a special place!! It is life changing for these boys as it centers around strong relationships that encourage strong academic growth. It’s a hockey school, but so much more than that.
"It’s a pleasure to come to work everyday. Thank you for creating such a positive, caring environment."
Kristi Florey, Bridgedale Math Teacher
Attention 4th Graders
Bridgedale Academy is accepting a limited number of 4th graders for the 2023-24 school year, on a case-by-case basis. Please call me at 708-712-5079 to inquire.
Mike McPartlin, Headmaster
Bridgedale students LOVE going to school,
and so they THRIVE in it.
They LOVE coming to school every day.
And as a result, they are thriving.
They engage academically ...
... and so they come to love learning.
They also love that they get to work on the sport they have such passion for, while also training to become better athletes, all as part of their school day.
They train athletically ...
... and so they more fully develop their skills.
They LOVE getting so much better ... so much sooner.
They are physically fit and mentally alert ... they are thriving.
“Every shot you don't take won't go in.”
Wayne Gretzky
Bridgedale is now enrolling students for the 2023-24 School Year.