Serious interest in reducing class size often begins with a key question: What available evidence would support the higher implementation costs? This article discusses positive results of a longitudinal statewide study in Tennessee (Project STAR) and uses findings to specify four guidelines for practitioners and policy makers. Evaluation plans…

Recent research suggests that small (1:15) classes in the primary grades improve a student's chance to obtain a solid educational foundation. Funding has proved a major hurdle to definitive class size research. Also, many class size studies are inconclusive, since few are longitudinal. Tennessee is weighing its burgeoning welfare and correctional…

Tennessee's four-year Project STAR provided one-third class size reduction in early elementary school. Small class students in all types of schools scored significantly higher than regular class students in reading and math. The article discusses lessons learned and cost-effective ways to reduce class size. (SM)