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Letter of the Week - Reducing Classroom Sizes

Every week, 2,000 - 3,000 Second District residents write to me about the issues pending before Congress, and I work hard to respond to each person as promptly and thoughtfully as possible.  On this "Letter of the Week" blog, I highlight constituent letters that are of general interest.  If you'd like to share your own views, please feel free to e-mail me at any time!

Dear Nancy,

I urge you to cosponsor legislation (H.R. 2668/S. 2122) that would provide
grants to states to help schools reduce class sizes.

Studies show that smaller class size provides lasting benefits for
students, especially for minority and low-income students and students
with exceptional needs.

The classroom is the nexus of student learning. Smaller classes allow for
more individualized attention for students.

Reducing class sizes has a positive impact on maximizing student learning
and closing achievement gaps. Simply stated -- when qualified teachers
teach smaller classes in modern schools, students learn more.

Teachers with small classes can spend time and energy helping each child
succeed.

Amanda from Manhattan, KS.

Dear Amanda,

Thank you for contacting my office about H.R. 2668, the Class Size Reduction Act.  As your representative, I appreciate hearing from you.

I am sure you will be pleased to know that I am a co-sponsor of H.R. 2688.  Last year I held a “virtual” town hall about the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB).  Almost 300 constituents called in for a discussion about some of the problems that they saw with NCLB and their hopes for changes that will occur when it is reauthorized.  Reducing class sizes was the number one request during the virtual town hall.

The Class Size Reduction Act, introduced by Representative David Wu, will provide grants to local education agencies to reduce class sizes to 18 students in grades K-3.  This bill has been referred to the House Education and Labor Committee.  I will follow its progress closely, and you can monitor it as well at http://www.thomas.loc.gov.

As your representative and as a mother, I understand the importance of improving education and supporting all students and teachers in Kansas.  Thank you for contacting me.  I hope you will continue to keep in touch and let me know whenever I may of future assistance.

Sincerely,
Rep. Boyda's signature
Nancy Boyda
Member of Congress