5 Ways Your Child Can Benefit from Smaller Class Sizes

Smaller class sizes really do matter when it comes to your child’s educational experience. Here are just some of the benefits.

1. More Individual Attention - In smaller classes, teachers can devote more time to each student. Imagine a classroom where the teacher knows your child's name, their interests, and their learning style. With fewer students to manage, teachers can sometimes offer tailored support, helping each child grasp concepts at their own pace.
2. Enhanced Engagement - In smaller classrooms, every child has the opportunity to speak up and share their thoughts. This environment fosters a sense of belonging and helps students feel more comfortable in engaging more in discussions and activities. Actively engaging is a fantastic way for kids to develop critical thinking skills.
3. Improved Academic Performance Research has shown that students in smaller classes often perform better academically. With personalized attention and a more interactive learning environment, children are more likely to excel. This advantage can lead to higher grades and a better grasp of the material, setting a solid foundation for future learning.
4. Stronger Relationships The bonds that form in a smaller class can be incredibly beneficial. Students often feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts and asking questions when they know their teacher well. This connection can significantly enhance a student’s self-esteem and emotional well-being. Strong student-teacher relationships are important in fostering a positive learning environment.
5. Tailored Learning Experiences In a smaller classroom, teachers can more easily adjust their teaching strategies to meet the varying needs of their students. Lessons can be more customized, incorporating different learning styles and interests.

At Pinecrest Academy, we are fortunate to be able to keep our class sizes smaller, with an average of 20 or fewer students in each class. This benefit really does make a significant difference in how our students learn. It’s especially beneficial to our PreK3 students, as they enter school for the first time and may need the extra attention from their teachers. Likewise, when our high school students begin taking extra-rigorous AP classes, they thrive when receiving more one-on-one time with their teachers.  It’s a win-win for both students and teachers alike and creates a natural conduit for lively discussion and critical thinking.

Amy Bowman is the High School Principal at Pinecrest Academy. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Villanova University and a Master of Art in Teaching from the University of West Georgia. Mrs. Bowman joined Pinecrest in 2017 as a biology teacher. Named Dean of Academics in 2020, she worked closely with the High School Principal and the Dean of Students in assisting with day-to-day operations of the High School. In Spring 2022, Mrs. Bowman was named High School Principal.