Most classes at Benilde-St. Margaret’s have more than 20 students. But for a few students––and one teacher––this is not an option, as this year’s AP French class has three students, far below the school average.

This year AP French is made up of senior Elisabeth Krane, and juniors Nick Hilson and Katie Baudler, and is taught by Ms. Anna Geving in the yearbook room of the old junior high.

Ms. Geving feels a difference in having such a small class, but enjoys it nonetheless. “Larger class are fun too, but as for input for what you want to learn, there are many more options, because only three students have to agree on it. There’s much more flexibility,” said Ms. Geving.

With the flexibility of the class that comes with three students, material can be covered much faster. “It feels like she runs out of things to teach us at the end of the day because it goes so fast with just three. It’s fun, but it gets a little boring sometimes,” said Krane.

Another aspect of having a small class is the extra attention received. “You get more focus from the teacher, but it can also be intimidating because you really have to know what you are doing,” said Baudler.

Even though the AP French students see the benefits of having a tiny class, they enjoy having larger classes as well. “I think it’s good to have big classes too because it’s good to have other opinions,” said Baudler.

Ms. Geving agrees she would not want to have a schedule of only small classes. “I like that I have a range. I think if all my classes were that small, I’d miss the contact I’d have with students in larger classes. And I think if all of my classes only had three students I’d only know like 25 kids in the whole school, and that would be pretty sad,” said Ms. Geving.

A small class size and the personal attention that comes with it may be better for some students than others. “I feel that would be very helpful for some of the students who are more timid… it’s a better opportunity to have their voice heard,” said Ms. Geving.