Advocates Call Out Chancellor Banks’ Dismissal of Class Size Benefits

New York City, N.Y. (July 18, 2024) - In response to Chancellor David Banks' remarks this past week on Class Size Law and Foundation Aid, education justice organizations, Alliance for Quality Education and the Education Law Center, released the following statement in response:

"As reported by the New York Post, on the same day Chancellor Banks acknowledged the need for increased state funding at Tuesday's Foundation Aid hearing hosted by the Rockefeller Institute, he irresponsibly dismissed the critical role that smaller class size plays in improving student academic and life outcomes for New York City public school students. His claim that "he turned out fine" despite overcrowded classrooms is no justification for denying today's students the proven benefits of smaller class sizes. These benefits are even more profound for students from low-income families.

"We would expect the Chancellor to understand that important policy decisions cannot be based on one individual's personal experience. Reducing class size is not only a mandate of the Campaign for Fiscal Equity decision, but also of the Class Size Law. We must hold our leaders accountable to uphold these laws and prioritize the educational needs of all New York City public school students, particularly those from our most marginalized communities."