I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning and all music students who need individual attention. Music is underfunded already. We need MORE funding for MORE teachers.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

Raising the music class student limit to 45 will be detrimental to the learning and performing of all music students in Virginia. It takes away from the students ability to receive attention from the teacher and overall lessons focus in the classroom. Music students need individual time with their teacher that cannot be achieved in a classroom with 45 students. -sincerely, a high school clarinet player

Raising the music class student limit to 45 will be detrimental to the learning and performing of all music students in Virginia. It takes away from the students ability to receive attention from the teacher and overall lessons focus in the classroom. Music students need individual time with their teacher that cannot be achieved in a classroom with 45 students. -sincerely, a high school clarinet player

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. In 2021 I had a 6th grade orchestra class of mixed instrumentation of 40 students to teach in a 45 minute class period. That allowed a little more than one minute of time to attend to each student. I have taught for 32 years and it was one of the most challenging teaching situations of my entire career. In the class were students who spoke little of no English and several special education students. Sometimes I had a teacher assistant with me, but it was not often enough. Even with two adults in the room, it was not a good situation for the students at all. I have taught classes as large as 55 students (7th and 8th grade), but again, it is not recommended for the sake of the students' learning and general welfare. If you not someone who has been in a school lately, please consider visiting one soon, so you understand the importance of providing quality instruction and adequate attention to our students, who will be future voters someday. Quality education matters, and our state legislature needs to undestand this when proposing new laws.

I am a music teacher of 14 years with the Loudoun County Public Schools. A smaller class size is essential for our students, especially at my Title I building where we have an overwhelming percentage of English Language Learners and Special Education students.

I oppose SB656 because it would hurt students and teachers. This is yet another example of how teachers are being given progressively more work while at the direct opposition of what would benefit the greater good. Having students with enough attention to excel would allow for better outcomes and more teacher retention through more manageable workloads.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I am a middle school orchestra teacher in Loudoun County and do not believe my students would benefit from a larger class size! In fact, I believe it would be tremendously detrimental to their education.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size will lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class sizes increases the risk of lower instructional quality, increased teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. Class sizes are already too large as is, and teachers are struggling to meet all kids where they are. Students need more individualized attention, so that every child can be met on their learning levels. We should be passing a bill that requires additional teachers in music classrooms, especially in band and orchestra. Band teachers are often asked to teach 10 different instruments all at one time - especially at the beginning level, when students have not learned controlled playing on an instrument, this can cause extreme overstimulation in the classroom, constant ear fatigue, and even loss of hearing/hearing damage. We should be lowering class size, while still allowing all students access to their music choice, while increasing the number of music teachers.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because increasing the class sizes marginalizes students that require more individualized instruction, and lowers the instructional quality for all students. There is already a certain amount of flexibility allowed by the VA Code. I encourage you to spend some time in your local music classrooms at all levels and discuss with those teachers what we are expected to accomplish, how we do it, and how it can be improved.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention

I strongly oppose this bill. Music teachers are already struggling with class sizes for all ensembles. Especially in 6th grade when students are learning fundamentals of instruments. They need more individualized instruction, and that will be impossible if our class sizes get any bigger. This will certainly lead to lower performance grades and more struggling students. The arts programs in our schools will suffer because of this, and we are already fighting budget cuts.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I am writing to express my opposition to SB656. The existing Virginia Code already provides sufficient flexibility for local school divisions; therefore, mandating higher class size limits is unnecessary. Such a change would inevitably compromise instructional quality and exacerbate teacher burnout. Furthermore, it would be particularly detrimental to introductory music programs, where students require consistent individual feedback to succeed.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I OPPOSE SB656 as increasing class sizes in music classrooms will limit instructional delivery, stretch resources beyond an acceptable level of accessibility, and increase teacher workload to the extent that both the classroom environment and program cohesion will be adversely affected.

Hello - as a parent with a child in Marching band, Jazz band and Wind Ensemble at South Lakes High School, in Reston, Virginia, I want to express my concern and alarm that (already large) class sizes could become larger. This program has become an integral part of my son’s life - the band has received top honors and accolades for excellence this year. They had their best year ever, receiving top honors and awards for their assessments and competitions. This would be much more difficult to achieve with larger class sizes. Please do not increase the class sizes.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. 45 students in one class is too many for any one teacher to be effective! We want to promote music education and please remember that there's a correlation between students who play music and an increase in math scores so the impact of music education extends beyond that classroom.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. Music is a vital part of education and more often than not allows students to form connections with their peers in ways that they may otherwise not be able to. I have been a music student for the past 11 years, and I can say first handedly that the lessons that have been taught to me from my mentors would not be accessible with a larger class size. Really, the connections and experiences formed through music are something that I, and many of my other peers, will carry with us for our whole lives. So I am opposing SB656 because this bill takes away from the opportunity to form those connections— connections that everyone should have access to.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. Opposing this bill needs to happen to guarantee high standard of quality, relationship, education, and effectiveness in our classroom, school, and community for all classrooms.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656. Increasing class size puts students’ individual needs at risk and increases teacher workload.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I have two students in the band program at South Lakes HS in Reston, VA, and I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. My children have greatly benefitted from their experience in music education and it could be negatively affected by increasing class sizes. It is unnecessary and unwanted. Please do not pass this proposal.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size drastically increases teacher workload and has the potential to lower instructional quality while also harming beginning music students who need individual attention. It is no secret that music education is an invaluable, and sometimes even life-saving component of our curriculum that provides students with a deeply needed creative outlet. And yet our music programs are already suffering from lack of funding. Please don't hurt them further by making music classes even more crowded than they already are.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention

I oppose this plan. As a middle school band director with 45 years of experience in Stafford schools, I can tell you that 45 students in a band class is a poor decision. Individual needs cannot be met. Special needs accommodations can not be properly administered. The rooms would be too crowded. It would be a terrible way for students to be introduced to instrumental music. I have taught 50 kids at a time in the past and I can tell you that many quit after such an impersonal and chaotic introduction. I heard the proposal and I can tell you that NO TEACHER in Stafford County asked for this. I can also assure that any student who wants to be in band- can take the class. Our schedules meet that need already. I have no idea who wrote the misguided rationale - whoever it was has no idea what is going on our classrooms.

OPPOSE Oppose

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention

I OPPOSE SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I am opposed to Bill SB656 as it will have a negative effect on the very critical musical education of young students in the state. Students can not receive the individual attention required in music classes when the number of students reaches the proposed level.

This is detrimental to effective instruction and devalues our music educators. This should absolutely NOT pass.

I really worry about the potential of very large classes and the effect it will have on our students quality of learning. Music classes such as band are so specialized that it is already a very difficult task for a teacher to educate a class of so many different instruments. Many other states have multiple music teachers per class before they increase to this size. Although there are good aspects of hosting such a large class, it is always in conjunction with more than one educator in the classroom. Please reconsider passing this bill so we can keep music education a little more manageable.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

"I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention."

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. As a music teacher of this Commonwealth, this would harm the great students who will come through my doors.

OPPOSITION I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

This would severely limit success in music class for students.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. In my district, I teach a mixed instrumentation group of students which is already a hinderance to my students' progress. When I see other instrumental music programs around the country thriving, I am reminded at how often we cut corners in the name of efficiency. Prioritizing what is best for kids, regardless of academic discipline should be of the utmost importance.

I must oppose this bill's passage, and ask you to vote nay when brought to the floor. This bill seeks to dangerously overburden music classrooms as a short-term solution to an increasingly long-term problem. If school divisions want to cram more students into increasingly fewer elective options for students, that speaks more to the dangerous underfunding of our most in-need school divisions of additional staff requirements to meet a growing population. I urge you to vote no on SB656

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because it will have a negative impact on the teaching and learning process. The current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. Please vote "no" and do what is right for teachers and students.

I oppose SB656 because the current Virginia Code already provides divisions with flexibility when needed. Raising class size limits is not a solution to staffing or scheduling challenges—it risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and doing real harm to our youngest and most vulnerable learners. As a music educator with more than 20 years in the classroom, I have seen firsthand the profound benefits of smaller class sizes in elementary general music and beginning band. These are not passive, lecture-based courses. They are highly interactive, performance-based classes in which every child is actively singing, moving, playing instruments, reading notation, and developing fine motor skills. Beginning musicians require constant monitoring of posture, embouchure, hand position, breath support, mallet grip, and instrument care. They need immediate feedback to prevent the formation of bad habits that can take years to undo. That level of detailed, differentiated instruction simply cannot happen effectively in oversized classes. Research consistently shows that smaller class sizes in the early grades lead to stronger academic outcomes, improved engagement, fewer behavioral disruptions, and stronger relationships between teachers and students. In music specifically, smaller groups improve ensemble balance, allow for more frequent individual assessment, and increase student confidence and persistence. Music classrooms are also uniquely equipment-based. More students mean fewer instruments per child, less time actively engaged in learning, greater wear and tear on costly materials, and increased safety concerns when managing movement and instruments in limited physical space. Large class sizes disproportionately impact students who need the most support—those with IEPs, English language learners, and students who may already feel unsure about participating in a performance-based class. Elementary music often serves as a gateway to long-term involvement in band, choir, orchestra, and other co-curricular programs that strengthen school culture, student belonging, and academic motivation. When beginning experiences are diluted due to overcrowding, fewer students continue, weakening the entire arts pipeline. The current code already allows flexibility where necessary. Expanding maximum class sizes across the board prioritizes convenience over quality and risks undermining programs that are foundational to student growth. Strong elementary music programs help develop discipline, teamwork, creativity, literacy skills, and perseverance—traits that benefit the entire school community. If we want strong students and strong schools, we must protect the learning environments that foster careful instruction, meaningful feedback, and authentic engagement. Smaller class sizes are not a luxury in elementary music; they are essential to student success.

I oppose SB656 because the existing VA Code already allows for necessary adjustments without compromising standards. Raising class size caps will inevitably increase teacher workloads and lower the quality of education. This is especially detrimental to introductory music programs, where students require close, one-on-one guidance to succeed.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. This could create an unsafe environment, in emergency situations. One teacher cannot protect 45 precious lives.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB 656 because beginning instrumental music classes are akin to teaching French, German, Spanish, and Latin classes all at once. I teach 10 instruments at the same time. While they may be trying to play the same music, they all have different techniques that require frequent visual and auditory modeling. Every class has students with 504, IEP, and reading plans, as well as English language learners. Increasing class sizes will have significant negative effects on student outcomes and will amplify teacher burn-out.

Beginning instrumental music class sizes should be lowered, not increased! Proper technique and instruction is so important when students first begin playing an instrument. Many classrooms in Virginia aren't even large enough for 45 kids plus instruments. According to this rule, 2 6th grade classes would contain 90 kids. For many core teachers, this would be almost 4 full size classes.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

Opposition

The current legislation allows flexibility but increasing limits would only hurt student learning and increase the burden on teachers. This would be particularly hard on beginning music students who need individualized attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

This bill can severely diminish the product of music education. In smaller schools, this will not affect them. However, in larger programs, this can hinder the progress of large class ensembles. This is similar to having only 11 football players to play both O and D line.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention." This will have a real impact on our youngest students who need manageable classes sizes to recieve the attetion and instruction that will help them develop the skills to be successful.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

As a parent and educator, I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. Thank you for consideration of my and my family's concerns.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I respectfully submit this comment in opposition to SB656. Current Virginia statute already provides school divisions with flexibility to exceed the Grade 6 class-size cap of 35 students when necessary, provided required procedural steps are followed, including parent notification. That flexibility is already being exercised in practice across the Commonwealth. SB656 does not create new system-wide flexibility. Instead, it specifically singles out music ensemble classes and raises their allowable statutory cap to 45 students. Under current staffing reductions, fiscal pressures, and already elevated instructional loads for music educators, isolating one discipline for larger class sizes risks normalizing unsustainable instructional conditions. Beginning-level ensemble instruction in Grade 6 requires individualized feedback, careful monitoring, and attention to student safety. Expanding caps specifically for music without addressing broader staffing realities may diminish instructional quality rather than expand meaningful access. For these reasons, I respectfully urge the subcommittee not to advance SB656 as drafted. Christopher Moseley President, Virginia Association of Music Education Administrators

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

The VCFAE opposes SB656 - Following is the VCFAE Position Statement: Since the beginning of school this year, the education landscape has shifted rapidly, prompting additional internal and external review of arts educators' concerns and leading VCFAE to determine that we oppose SB656. Our support for any legislation is contingent upon confidence that implementation will not exacerbate existing staffing and instructional challenges. Given recent developments affecting music programs statewide, those conditions are no longer met. Music educators across the state are reporting emerging fiscal pressures that are already affecting program staffing, scheduling, and instructional conditions. While the 45-student cap is, we assume, intended to increase student access, under current, intensifying staffing and funding constraints, it is likely to negatively affect instructional conditions and limit the individualized instruction essential for beginning-level musicians’ success, which is best supported through smaller class settings. Additionally, evolving staffing and compensation structures in some divisions further constrain the ability to absorb increased class sizes without reducing the overall number of instructional positions. Under the Virginia Standards of Quality (SOQ), local school divisions already have the authority to allow classes to exceed established class-size limits when necessary. As currently written, if a class exceeds the applicable limit after September 30, the sole requirement is that the division notify parents within 10 days, explain the reason for the overage, and describe the steps being taken to address it (“After September 30 of any school year, anytime the number of students in a class exceeds the class size limit… the local school division shall notify the parent…”). As such, the existing statute already provides local divisions with flexibility to manage class sizes based on local needs, and no change in statutory language is required to permit this practice. At the same time, educators report that under current conditions, this flexibility, combined with staffing and funding pressures, can contribute to unsustainable class sizes and workloads. Further compounding this concern is the routine exceeding of student load limits established in the Virginia Standards of Accreditation (SOA). Under the SOA, music and physical education teachers may be assigned up to 200 students, compared to 150 students for most other instructional areas. While the SOA permits divisions to exceed these limits through the provision of an overload stipend, teachers are rarely afforded the option to decline overload assignments, reducing the intended protective effect of these standards and further straining instructional quality. These conditions are directly tied to teacher retention, which remains a significant concern statewide. Feedback from educators consistently points to working conditions, including class size and workload, as key factors influencing decisions to remain in or leave the profession. The Virginia Coalition for Fine Arts Education (VCFAE) is a collaborative advocacy group of Virginia arts educators, arts education associations, community arts organizations, higher education representatives, and other stakeholders, including the VPTA.

I oppose SB656 because increasing class size limits risks lowering the quality of education that students would receive in their music class and also overwhelms teachers in their workload. Additionally, it would hinder beginning music students who need individual attention; an educator’s support which helps students retain lessons and encourages continued interest.

I want to let you know that I oppose SB656 and I want you to as well. The current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits, risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. With two kids in music classes, this is something I take personally and will factor into my voting.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need more attention. Please do the right thing for students and consider the negative consequences of this bill. Please consider the real issues, which is staffing shortages, below standard teacher pay, and the instructional quality for the students. If you are a fan of this bill, perhaps you should spend a day in the classroom with 45 beginner music students and see how much you can get accomplished for each student.

I oppose SB656 not only as a parent but as a musician as well. Class sizes of 45 and above reduce the individual attention needed for students to properly learn their instrument and honestly, increase the likelihood that students will quit the instrument as they will not experience proper progression in learning. Beginner players need more individualized attention and many cannot afford private lessons so their band director is the only source of learning.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention so they can succeed and learn on a safe environment. An increase in class size will reduce the quality of learning as students are receiving less and less hands on education outside of an electronic device. Music education increases fine motor skills, social and emotional wellness as well as physical fitness (when leading to marching band).

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention so they can understand and pass their class. This will increase the stress for everyone overall, which will lead to a much more struggle than necessary.

“I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.”

As a music educator with over 40 years in the field, I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention

Increased music class size in 6th grade will categorically: - decrease instructional quality - potentially slow down curriculum (it takes longer to tune more instruments or get that many kids into a room) - increase workload for teachers whose workload is already above 1 FTE during the school year This insight is coming from an accomplished flute player who was a product of the FCPS music program, and someone’s whose life has been in the performing arts. There is zero research that would support a musical environment with a worse student to teacher ratio with beginning musicians. Even in high school band, we would have sectionals weekly by instrument to get quality, detailed, instrument specific instruction.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. This would cause a decrease in classwide and individual learning progress.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. As Executive Director of the Virginia Music Educators Association, and a 25 year music educator and music administrator, I have significant concerns about the impact this legislation would have on students across the Commonwealth. Increasing allowable class sizes to 45 for beginning-level music instruction risks diminishing instructional quality, exacerbating staffing shortages, and creating inequitable learning conditions. These changes could undermine student success and long-term program retention rather than expand meaningful access. Thank you for your consideration and for your continued commitment to Virginia’s students and educators.

I oppose SB656 because teaching 45 beginning musicians with just one teacher is nearly impossible. This will have a huge negative impact on our kids and our teachers' mental health.

I oppose SB656 because the current Virginia Code already provides flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who require individual attention. It also detrimentally affects teacher contracts and expectations by expanding responsibilities beyond what is reasonable and creating unrealistic teaching conditions. Additionally, it undermines appropriate student-teacher ratios and can create the false appearance that a teacher does not have a full slate of classes, while in reality they are responsible for an exorbitant number of students. This is unfair to highly qualified and educated educators and ultimately weakens both program quality and student learning.

I strongly oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. Teachers are already exhausted with current scheduling expectations, and this will further deprioritize the importance of music education, instead treating the class as just a daycare center so classroom teachers can have planning time.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. This bill would ultimately harm one on one musical instruction in public schools and it would not increase the accessibility of music classes. Teachers are not seeing students turned away from music classes. Instead, we are seeing fewer sections offered, larger classes, and in some cases, music teachers being reassigned to teach non-music courses. Larger Grade 6 music classes will reduce instructional quality and increase teacher overload. Beginning music students need individual feedback and close supervision. Increasing class sizes makes that harder, while adding to already high student loads for music teachers.

I strongly oppose SB656. The current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. If the goal is to increase access to music education, expanding staffing and course sections would be a more effective and sustainable solution.

I oppose SB 656 and HB 36 on the grounds that they are unnecessary and harmful to music programs. I teach beginning instrumental music in Stafford, where the purported problem of access exists. Students are not being turned away from music education here; instead, positions have already been de-staffed over the last several years, increasing the student load on those who remain. Instrumental music teachers would never let students be turned away, so they have shouldered the burden by taking on more students and larger classes. If the General Assembly wants to support music education, they should provide incentive for localities to properly staff music classrooms. They should also ensure that existing law is followed so that families are notified if classes exceed 35 students, as they routinely do. Having taught beginning classes ranging from 25 to 55 students, I can assure you that having large classes causes students to be left behind, especially those who are disadvantaged and those who receive special education services. It is discouraging for students and teachers alike that students are denied equal access to music education by large classes sizes and reductions in staff. Increasing class size limits does not solve this problem; it exacerbates it.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I am in opposition with this bill as the increase of students in the classroom will decrease the quality of effective instruction for students. This will have a true impact on the quality of music from programs.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. This is especially important in the Fine Arts, where funding and staffing are also a widespread concern. Approving this bill would be a disservice to all educators in the commonwealth and would set a precident that will harm our students and teachers over time.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. At a school with a steadily growing band program, the smaller class sizes have significantly reduced my personal stress and have increased the quality of instruction I am able to provide to first and second year band students.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

Oppose

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. We have a great deal of education based research that clearly demonstrates these results.

STRONGLY OPPOSE!!

I am writing to share my concerns regarding SB656 and its impact on sixth-grade music instruction. Expanding access for sixth-grade music students requires the same approach used in every other academic area, opening additional sections and staffing them appropriately rather than increasing class sizes. When enrollment increases in English, math, or science, schools respond by opening more sections to ensure students receive appropriate instruction. Music education should be treated with the same instructional standards. I share this perspective not only as a practicing educator, but as the 2024 GRAMMY Music Educator Award recipient. I was recognized by both the Virginia House and Senate for work centered on meeting every student where they are and expanding access through high-quality instruction. It is deeply concerning to see legislation advance that directly contradicts those stated values by making it harder for educators to provide the level of feedback and support students need. Current Virginia law already allows school divisions to exceed sixth-grade class size limits when necessary, with appropriate notification and collaboration with the teacher, and that flexibility is already being used. The primary barrier to access is staffing and scheduling, not student demand. With SB656, fewer sections would be offered and classes consolidated. Music educators are already carrying increasingly unsustainable class loads without full-time status or while being split across multiple schools. National and state arts education staffing data from the Arts Education Partnership link these conditions to higher attrition rates and persistent teacher shortages in the arts when compared to other instructional areas. Raising the statutory cap to 45 students risks accelerating teacher turnover and institutionalizing unstable instructional conditions rather than improving access or quality.  In practical terms, this bill would allow a school with 90 students to offer two sections of 45 instead of three or four appropriately sized sections. For new musicians, that distinction matters. Early instrumental instruction requires close supervision, individual feedback, and careful attention to student safety and technique. Larger classes significantly reduce instructional quality and increase teacher workload, which directly impacts student success and long-term retention. The unintended consequence is that more students will leave music believing they are “not good at it,” when in reality they were never given a developmentally appropriate opportunity to learn. First-year experiences are foundational, and when instructional quality is compromised at the point of entry, participation declines rather than grows.

While I encourage having more access to music for students, bigger class sizes is not the solution for this. It will compromise the daily lessons the students get and make it harder for students to actually learn and grow within the environment. The proper solution would be to hire more music teachers to accommodate more students. Not make more work for our already hard working teachers.

I strongly oppose this bill. We all want to expand and improve access to music education - that’s not in question. But this proposal would do the opposite. Increasing class sizes means fewer sections for music teachers, which can ultimately reduce staff or force educators to teach or provide support in areas they aren’t certified in. That doesn’t strengthen music programs, it weakens them. As a lifelong music student in Virginia, I appreciate that Virginia lawmakers want to improve access to music education. If that is truly the goal, I urge you to oppose this bill and instead work alongside the Virginia Music Educators Association (VMEA) to craft legislation that genuinely expands and supports music education for our students. Thank you. Silvio Ramirez

I completely oppose this bill to increase class sizes to 45 students. It will be at the detriment to our students' individual learning and developmental needs. This will also cause negative effects on our teachers and their longevity in the field! Please do not pass legislation that will hurt such a large group of educators and students!

I must respectfully oppose this bill. Students need individual instruction as they begin their musical journey. This individualized instruction is critical in creating a foundation of strong performance and music reading skills. Increasing student enrollment in these classes from 35 to up to 45 students is educational malpractice. Students will get frustrated by the lack of individualized time and either create a negative classroom environment or drop out of music altogether; teachers will get frustrated and not feel productive with their students, giving teachers yet another reason to leave the profession. I ask you to reconsider this bill. It is not fair to students or teachers. Thank you.

While I appreciate the spirit of this bill is to provide increased access to music classes, the reality is that increasing class size would likely decrease access overall to a qualified music teacher. Increasing staffing is really the best solution to increasing access. Adding more students to a teacher who is likely already overloaded will have a negative affect on the overall experience for the students seeking participation in music.

Increasing class size in the beginner music classrooms is damaging. 45 in any classroom setting is unrealistic of meeting students needs. Please oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention

From my understanding of this bill, the intent is to increase music participation. However, by increasing music class sizes, the actual result of the bill will be to increase the student teacher ratio, thereby placing a greater responsibility on the teacher to meet the needs of a greater number of students. Instead of hiring more teachers to ensure students the opportunity to participate in a variety of music classes. As a former music teacher, who is currently working with at-risk youth accessing intensive behavioral health services through Virginia’s Children’s Services Act, I know first hand the power of music has for our youth. It is important that all youth have the opportunity to study music in classes with sizes that allow them to have the instruction and individual attention that leads to successful participation. As a parent of a child who participated in the school band throughout high school, I was a witness to how having two band directors to share the load in instruction for a variety of instrumental music classes led to multiple youth’s growth in both the content area and in growing into better humans.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. We should simply hire more staff to accommodate those who wish to learn more about music instead of overwhelming the educators we have.

I teach grades 6-12 orchestra, and I oppose SB656. Increasing class size limits will lower instructional quality, increase teacher workload, and harm beginning music students who need individual attention. Current class sizes do not create a barrier to the arts for students, this bill is an excuse for Stafford schools to destaff hardworking music teachers at the harm of 6th grade students. SB656 will leave lasting consequences to the quality of music programs.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

Please OPPOSE this bill! Access to music education is important, but increasing class sizes to 45 (especially at the Beginning level) is the OPPOSITE solution needed. Large class sizes while first learning an instrument diminishes the quality of student instruction; bad quality=lower retention. If you are truly looking to make change to BEST support access to music education, reach out to our state governing bodies- VMEA, VBODA, VCDA, and NAfME. These organizations would be happy to work with you to find better solutions than this bill to support student learning.

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention. What needs to be codified in order to make sure that all children have access to music instruction in the public school setting is to make sure school systems provide the appropriate qualified staffing in order to make sure all children have access. Also make sure the school systems have the full financial support in order to do this.

Please OPPOSE this bill! While we certainly want to improve and increase access to music education, this bill will worsen the situation rather than improve it. When you increase class sizes, you reduce the number of sections that the musicteachers are teaching, which will have the unintended effect of reducing music staff or causing them to be required to teach or provide remedial guidance in subject for which they are not certified. As a lifelong music educator in Virginia, i commend the Virginia legislation for wanting to improve access to music education. If that is truly the goal, we ask you to oppose this bill and work with the team at VMEA (VA Music Educators Association) to create new legislation which will provide more access to Music! Thank you!

Concerned about minimizing staff

I oppose SB656 because the current VA Code already allows flexibility when needed. Increasing class size limits risks lowering instructional quality, increasing teacher workload, and harming beginning music students who need individual attention.

I am writing as a parent of three, a division‑level arts administrator, and a former music specialist at the Virginia Department of Education, to express my strong opposition to SB656 which would raise allowable class sizes for 6th grade music ensembles to 45 students. In my experience, this change is unnecessary and would negatively affect instructional quality. Virginia’s current statute already provides school divisions with the flexibility to exceed class‑size limits when needed, as long as proper steps are followed. School divisions across the Commonwealth already use this flexibility, so SB656 does not meaningfully increase access to music. Instead, it risks making very large classes an accepted norm. The real challenge is not students being denied music, it is improper staffing and scheduling. Instead I am seeing fewer course sections offered, larger classes, and in some cases, music teachers reassigned to teach non‑music subjects. Raising the class-size cap will only amplify these issues. Beginning music students require close supervision and individualized feedback to build foundational skills. Classes of 45 students make that level of instruction nearly impossible and contribute to unsustainable workloads for teachers, which in turn impacts student learning and teacher retention. For these reasons, I oppose SB656 and encourage solutions that strengthen access to music education through appropriate staffing and scheduling, not through expanding class sizes at the expense of instructional quality.

Please pass this important bill