HOS Blog - March 2026

The Barnhart Advantage: Intentionally Small Class Sizes Make a Huge Difference - By Dr. Tim Spurrier

At Barnhart School, small class sizes are not simply a structural choice; they are a deliberate, research-based strategy to ensure every student thrives. When classes are intentionally small, teachers are able to truly know each child, understanding their strengths, challenges, and learning styles. This allows for instruction that is thoughtfully tailored for both support and enrichment, along with timely, meaningful feedback. The Tennessee STAR Study reinforces this approach, demonstrating that students in smaller classes consistently outperform their peers in larger settings.

Small class environments also lead to stronger academic growth by creating more opportunities for active participation, discussion, and deeper engagement with content. Students spend more time on task and are more involved in their learning, which leads to higher achievement, particularly in foundational areas like reading and mathematics. Research by Alan B. Krueger further supports this, showing that students in smaller classes gain the equivalent of additional months of learning each year compared to those in larger classrooms.

Equally important, small class sizes foster confidence and encourage student voice. In a supportive environment where every student is seen and heard, children are more willing to ask questions, take academic risks, and actively participate. This increased engagement not only strengthens communication skills but also builds self-assurance. Follow-up research from Jeremy Finn highlights that students in smaller classes demonstrate improved behavior, greater engagement, and a stronger connection to their learning experience.

Finally, the benefits of small class sizes extend well beyond the classroom, shaping long-term student success. Closer relationships between students and teachers create a sense of belonging and support that enhances both academic and social-emotional development. According to studies from the Brookings Institution, these early advantages contribute to stronger outcomes over time. Longitudinal research from Project STAR follow-up studies shows that students who experience small classes are more likely to pursue advanced coursework, graduate, and achieve long-term academic success.

At Barnhart, this intentional commitment to small class sizes ensures that every student is known, supported, and positioned to thrive.