Research shows benefits of K-6 model

To the Editor:

First, thank you again for your attention and well-written coverage of the Guilderland Central School District Capacity Use Study.  In your Aug. 28, 2014 editorial, you proposed moving the sixth-graders from the middle school back to the neighborhood elementary schools as an option for increasing revenue for the district as the newly created space at the middle school could be leased to another entity.

Well, in researching different classroom configuration options, I have discovered wide support for the kindergarten-through sixth-grade models.

Studies are numerous, some focusing on improved academic performance, others finding decreased suspensions, improved self-esteem, etc. in comparing sixth-graders continued at elementary schools as opposed to those who have transitioned to the middle school.

Jodi Novak Wey
Guilderland

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