June 22, 2014

Dr. Edward Melnick, Superintendent

North Shore Schools

112 Franklin Avenue

Sea Cliff, New York 11578

Dear Dr. Melnick,

Thank you very much for listening to our concerns during the June 10th board meeting, and our request to add a third section to the first grade class for the 2014-2015 school year at Sea Cliff Elementary School. As parents we are greatly concerned on how the class size is impacting our children’s quality of education. As mentioned during the board meeting this group (outgoing kindergarten / incoming first graders) seems to have many individualized needs above the traditional academic ones. There are currently a number of social and behavioral issues, which has a negative effect on the learning of the grade as a whole. We are extremely concerned, that unless smaller class sizes are provided, our teachers will not be able to offer each student the appropriate level of care and attention which we have all come to expect from this wonderful district.

We are strongly and respectfully requesting that you, along with the school board override the current student limit and add the third section our children so deeply need. With the rigors of the common core standards coupled with students needs a third section of first grade is warranted.

As you know studies have shown that smaller class sizes result in significant gains in student achievement which continue on with oneself to graduation and beyond. This is especially true in the early formative years of a child’s education. By providing a smaller class size the teacher can devote more time to individualizing instruction for each student and less time will be used for managing students’ behaviors. This type of personalized instruction will allow teachers to get to know their students and their specific learning needs which will enable them to educate the students more effectively.

In addition, many students will be able to stay focused to the task at hand rather than be distracted by interrupting behaviors of over twenty other classmates. As you know conduct problems pose a challenge for both students and teachers. Student engagement is also increased with smaller class size. Knowing that the teacher will be able to call on a child in class will keep a student focused.

We anxiously await your and the board’s response to our request. As John Dewey wrote, “What the best and wisest parent wants for his own child, that must the community want for all of its children”.

Thank You.