In a smaller class, kids get more attention from their teacher, right? So shouldn't classes be small all the way through school? In fact, education researchers disagree sharply over whether smaller classes for upper grades are worthwhile.

It's difficult to track national progress in reducing class sizes because no state-by-state "actual" class size information exists. Educators know that smaller class sizes mean higher quality education, but how do you convince politicians of this all-important truth? The first step is gathering accurate data. This Class Size Data Collection Form is designed to provide state departments of education with a standard approach to collecting and reporting "actual" class size data.

Gathering Accurate Data Form (Microsoft Word)

Bolstered by substantive research and widespread popularity among parents and teachers, significant strides in reducing class size have been made in California, Wisconsin and elsewhere in recent years.