Minister Croes: 24-student classroom limit to remain in place

ORANJESTAD – Aruba's Ministry of Kingdom Relations, Education, Youth, Innovation and Sports will maintain its policy limiting classrooms to a maximum of 24 students for the 2026-2027 school year. Introduced during the previous academic year, the measure is aimed at improving education quality while reducing teachers' workload.

According to Minister Gerlien Croes, smaller classes allow teachers to provide more individual attention, better address students' learning needs, and create a more effective learning environment. The ministry also expects the policy to improve teacher satisfaction and occupational well-being, ultimately leading to stronger academic performance.

At the same time, the ministry will continue enforcing the legal minimum of 16 students per class, ensuring efficient use of educational resources while maintaining healthy classroom interaction.

School boards are being asked to follow the 16-to-24 student guideline as closely as possible, taking into account available facilities and staffing levels. Where exceptional circumstances arise, the ministry says it is prepared to work with schools to find practical solutions.

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to working with school boards, the Department of Education and the Inspectorate of Education to strengthen Aruba's education system and provide a healthier learning environment for both students and teachers.