Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Education
 
Board
State Board of Education
 
chapter
Standards for Licensed Child Day Centers [8 VAC 20 ‑ 781]
Action Revisions to the Standards for Licensed Child Day Centers
Stage Proposed
Comment Period Ended on 1/30/2026
spacer
Previous Comment     Next Comment     Back to List of Comments
1/30/26  7:02 pm
Commenter: Mrs. Cash

Increasing Student Ratios
 

Increasing the ratio for pre-k students raises concerns about safety, supervision, and instructional quality. While pre-k children are more independent than younger age groups, they still require adult oversight for behavior support, social-emotional development, and supervision during transitions, toileting, meals, and outdoor play. Higher ratios increase the risk of missed behaviors, delayed responses to incidents, and reduced individualized support, which can directly impact classroom safety and learning outcomes. Maintaining lower ratios supports appropriate supervision, stronger teacher-child interactions, and a safer, more developmentally responsive environment. 

CommentID: 239210