By Shylo Garrett, 5th Grade Educator, Cassia County School District, Idaho
When we think about what makes a classroom effective, our minds often jump to teaching strategies or classroom management. While all these elements are important, there’s one factor that consistently has a significant impact on student success in my opinion: class size.
As a teacher, I’ve experienced the difference that smaller class sizes make—not just for students, but for me as well. When we reduce the number of students in a classroom, we open the door to more personalized instruction, deeper relationships, and better outcomes for everyone involved.
More One-on-One Attention
One of the most obvious advantages of smaller classes is the ability to give students more individualized attention. When class sizes are large, teachers are forced to split their time among many students, which can make it difficult to provide the support each child needs.
In a smaller class, I can check in with each student more frequently and intervene quickly when a student is struggling. Students who may not speak up in a larger group often feel more comfortable asking questions and engaging when the environment is more close knit. In larger classes, the classroom management becomes more difficult and the students who demand attention get the most attention. Students also “play off of each other,” and more interruptions are common.
Stronger Relationships and Classroom Culture
I believe smaller classes foster stronger relationships, not just between me and the students, but between students themselves. With fewer people in the room, it’s easier to build trust and respect.
In my experience, students in smaller classes tend to be more collaborative, more empathetic, and more willing to take risks. They know they’re seen and heard, and that creates a culture where learning becomes a shared goal rather than an individual one.
More Effective Classroom Management
Managing a classroom with fewer students is simply easier. It allows for smoother transitions, fewer behavioral disruptions, and more time spent on instruction rather than redirection. This doesn’t mean that small classes are perfect or without challenges, but it does mean I can give more proactive support and stay ahead of potential issues before they escalate.
When behavioral needs arise, I have the time and energy to address them with care and consistency, rather than feeling overwhelmed and reactive.
Reduced Teacher Burnout
Class size doesn’t just impact students, it has a major effect on me, too. Smaller classes mean more time to plan, assess, and provide meaningful feedback. It also means fewer papers to grade, fewer parents to contact, and more energy to devote to teaching.
When teacher burnout is a real and growing concern, class size is one of the most practical and impactful ways schools can support their educators.
Smaller Class Sizes Are an Investment, Not a Luxury
Some argue that reducing class sizes isn’t cost-effective or feasible. But I see smaller class sizes as an investment—one that pays off in student achievement, teacher retention, and long-term educational success. The benefits may not always be immediate or easy to quantify, but they’re real, and they matter.
We can’t always control every variable in education, but class size is one area where schools and districts can make a meaningful change. And when we do, everyone benefits—especially our students.
Shylo Garrett, 5th Grade Educator, Cassia County School District
9 years in Education, Interdisciplinary Studies K-8, Western Governors University