I am writing to voice my opposition to the proposed increase in staff to children ratios. As an experienced early childhood educator of more than 15 years, I strongly oppose the proposed increase. Young children NEED secure relationships with attuned caregivers and the proposed number of children, toddlers, infants per caregiver will make what is already difficult in a classroom environment nearly impossible. This is not good for children, families or teachers. The proposed increase will decrease quality of care, attunement and supervision wherever it is implemented, increase teacher overwhelmed and burnout, and decrease the quality of the services families are depending on. Please remove this section from the proposed amendment. 

Sincerely, 

Robin Criscuolo DeButts 

Robin’s Nest Nature Playschool

Crozet, VA