Representative Lucy McBath (R-GA) has introduced House Resolution 10631, also known as the Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act. This legislation would invest in addressing classroom overcrowding and setting students up for success.
How does this bill confront classroom overcrowding, specifically? The Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act would establish a $2 billion competitive grant program to help school districts reduce K–3 class sizes in low-income public elementary schools. 18 students per class would be the maximum for this program.
The grants would fund hiring and supporting qualified teachers, securing additional space or renovating school buildings, and providing teacher professional development, among other uses.
What key figures had to say:
- Rep. Lucy McBath: “Smaller class sizes help personalize education in ways that can fuel a child’s love of learning. When teachers have more opportunities for one-on-one time with their students, they can provide tailored instruction, individualized feedback, and the support each child needs to thrive. I am deeply appreciative of Senator Merkley for his continued leadership on this important legislation and his advocacy for students and educators.”
- Cosponsor Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR): “Growing up as an Oregon public school student, I remember having around 20 children in my first-grade class. When I dropped my son off for his first day of school, his class had 34 children, and I wondered how his teacher could organize and teach such a large group. It’s time to make sure our schools have the resources they need to support educators and help every child receive a quality learning experience.”
Further Context: Research shows students achieve better academic results with more individualized attention from instructors, especially in kindergarten through third grade. However, the continued strain on our public education system from staff shortages and tighter budgets has meant class sizes have continued to grow.
Rep. McBath and Sen. Merkley are making a bicameral push for better student outcomes with this legislation to boost funding for schools and increase individualized attention from instructors.
