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TECCA board accepts class-size guidance amid teacher and staff concerns over implementation
Summary
The TECCA board approved Class Size Guidance and a revised calendar; teachers and staff raised concerns about implementation, LiveLesson participation, IEP/504 compliance, and family notification as enrollment demand grows.
The TECCA Commonwealth Virtual School Board voted to accept proposed Class Size Guidance during its April 9, 2026 meeting after hearing public and staff comments about how the policy might affect instruction and student participation.
During public comment, middle-school science teacher Adria Alfano said she supports larger virtual-class sizes because larger groups can increase collaboration and prevent quiet breakout rooms. "This is my fifth year at TECCA and I have been teaching middle school science for 24 years. I am in favor of larger class sizes which increases collaboration," Alfano said. Joanna Moest, speaking on behalf of staff, read concerns from colleagues, saying many virtual students are shy and reluctant to participate in large groups and that teachers need clarity on how changes will be scheduled while maintaining IEP and 504 requirements.
Why it matters: TECCA is managing growing demand — Superintendent Patrick Lattuca reported a waitlist of 910 students and said approximately 2,200 students are returning with 315 newly enrolled this cycle, leaving roughly 500 open spaces. The guidance, developed by board members and staff, was presented as part of preparations for the 2026–27 school year and will affect class section sizes and scheduling.
Board action and context: The guidance was developed by board members and staff (including Grace Magley, Jerry Helsing and Heidi Nelson-Buffa) and placed on the consent/action agenda for approval. The Board approved acceptance of the guidance by motion (moved by Grace Magley, seconded by Jerry Helsing). Board members asked for clarity on implementation details; staff comments emphasized the need to ensure mandated supports and to notify families prior to registration.
Next steps: The guidance is now Board-approved and will be incorporated into planning for next school year; staff and the board signaled a need for explicit implementation steps and family communication during the registration period.
