Testimony to the House Public Education Committee in Support of HB 55
HB 55 by Rep. Mary Gonzalez will ensure pre-k class sizes and student-teacher ratios are manageable, meet national best practices, and create an optimal learning environment for children. Low class sizes and student-teacher ratios have been shown to boost the effectiveness of pre-k programs, helping more kids be ready for kindergarten and be on grade level in third grade. While state law sets a limit of 22 students per class for kindergarten through fourth grade, there is no statewide standard for pre-k class size or student-teacher ratios. A 2016 report commissioned by the Texas Education Agency recommended a maximum of 22 students and no more than 11 students for each teacher or aide in a classroom with more than 15 students. HB 55 would enact that recommendation to give kids a more enriching early education.