Education Laws and Regulations

Notice of Public Comment on the Proposed Amendments to 603 CMR 52.00, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Virtual Schools

Pursuant to its authority under M.G.L. c.71, § 94, and in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act, M.G.L. c. 30A, § 3, the Massachusetts Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (Board) is soliciting public comment on proposed amendments to 603 CMR 52.00, the regulations for Commonwealth of Massachusetts Virtual Schools.

The proposed amendments address the two types of Commonwealth of Massachusetts Virtual Schools (CMVS) outlined in statute and Single District Virtual Schools (SDVS). The proposed amendments also delete some language that is not consistent with changes made to M.G.L. c. 71, § 94, since 2014.

In general, the proposed amendments:

• clarify the two types of CMVS, both requiring a certificate issued by the Board;
• clarify the expectations for SDVSs consistent with the Guidelines for Submission of Single District Virtual School Proposals and the Frequently Asked Questions about Single District Virtual Schools;
• update the regulations to reflect the new SPEED Act, addressing the rights of military families;
• align the regulations with guidance on child safety; and
• make technical changes to conform the regulations to the statute.

Copies of the proposed amendments are available on the Department's website or by calling 781-338-3227. Written comments on the proposed amendments may be submitted by mail to: Office of Charter Schools and School Redesign, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, 75 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA 02148; by fax to: 781-338-3220; or by e-mail to: virtualschools@mass.gov . The deadline for submission of public comment is February 10, 2023, at 5 p.m. The Board is expected to vote on the proposed amendments at a regular monthly meeting scheduled in March 2023.