One of the largest benefits of choosing a parochial school such as St. John Amelith is the smaller class sizes and better student-to-teacher ratio. This type of individualized guidance and instruction helps students grow at their own pace while receiving the attention they need to overcome any academic challenges that may arise. Here are a few ways that smaller class sizes cultivate stronger, more confident students:

Academic Growth

One of the most notable benefits of smaller class sizes are the clear academic benefits that stem from this personalized instruction. According to the National Institute of Health, lower student-to-teacher ratios lead to not only higher scores on standardized examinations, but also better long-term educational outcomes such as higher rates of passing each grade level and higher rates of continuing higher education. This academic achievement is the result of educators having the ability to cater to students’ unique learning modalities, an objective that becomes more difficult when a teacher oversees a large classroom with several dozen students.

Student Engagement

Research on educational development shows that smaller classroom sizes can also boost students’ engagement, both in class and with their school as a whole. In classrooms with high student-to-teacher ratios, students often feel as though they become invisible, or that they don’t have an opportunity to speak up. Alternatively, in smaller classes students feel more seen and heard by their teachers, and often feel more comfortable raising their hand, asking questions, or participating in group activities. This increased engagement can, in turn, create more confident students who feel comfortable building connections with their classmates and expressing their views and ideas.

Teacher Empowerment

While smaller class sizes benefit students themselves, this dynamic can also be empowering for educators themselves. With lower student-to-teacher ratios, there is more time and space for learning objectives, field trips, group activities, etc. Large classrooms often require more consistent behavioral management, more time spent facilitating activities, and more hours of lesson-planning and grading. In the process, many students slip through the cracks and miss out on the individualized support they need. In a field already experiencing high rates of burnout, smaller class sizes can help teachers feel more in-tune with their students’ needs while also having the time to address individualized learning gaps.

For parents seeking a school where their child will be seen, heard, and valued, small class sizes and individualized attention matter. Here at St. John Amelith Lutheran School, our teachers are committed to meeting each student where they are at, forming personal connections, and addressing needs as soon as they arise. This personalized approach helps students to grow in faith, knowledge, and service with confidence.