Leonie Haimson - Class Size Matters

Laney Haimson, founder of Class Size Matters, discusses her journey into advocating for smaller class sizes in New York City. She highlights the significant impact of class size on student success and teacher effectiveness, supported by research. Despite efforts, class sizes remain large due to political and budgetary challenges. Haimson criticizes corporate reformers for promoting larger class sizes while their children benefit from smaller ones. Her organization continues to push for policy changes and better resource allocation to address these issues.

What initially motivated Laney Haimson to focus on class size issues?

• A research study she read

• Her daughter's experience in a large class

• A conversation with a school principal

• Her own experience as a teacher

According to research, what is one benefit of smaller class sizes?

• Increased teacher salaries

• Improved student test scores

• More school holidays

• Higher student dropout rates

What organization did Laney Haimson form to address class size issues?

• Class Size Matters

• Educational Priorities Panel

• School Reform Alliance

• Student Success Network

What is a major factor that affects the ability to reduce class sizes in New York City?

• Parental involvement

• School overcrowding

• Standardized testing

• Teacher training programs

What criticism does Laney Haimson have for corporate reformers regarding class sizes?

• They advocate for smaller class sizes in public schools

• They send their children to schools with large class sizes

• They push for larger class sizes while choosing small classes for their own children

• They focus on increasing teacher salaries