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Two more applications are in process for a CAVA@L.A. and to make CAVA@Kings an independent school. If all goes as planned, CAVA will increase its total to eight independent schools by the beginning of the 2006–2007 school year. This would generate a projected enrollment of 5,000 to 6,000 students. This is an incredible growth for such a short period of time.
Additionally, since the study first took place, teaching staff has more than doubled to 177 highly qualified employees with credentials. Yet this number is still not enough to meet the demands of next year’s enrollment projections. This fact, coupled with CAVA’s commitment to smaller class size (25:1), will require the hiring of additional teachers. CAVA has already received 550 applications for these positions and of them, 100 will be hired for the next school year, bringing the total teaching staff to 277.
Other changes that have occurred over the last several months have come about in response to the demands of increased growth, requests from families, and a desire to continually improve. For instance, CAVA continues to extend its range of grade levels each year. Last year grades K-9 were offered; next fall (2006) tenth grade will be added and so on, until it encompasses all elementary and secondary levels, K-12. Greater support has been given to families in terms of smaller class size so that teachers can give increased attention to fewer students (as stated above). Synchronous online classes are now provided (via Illuminate) where more direct instruction and teacher/student interaction are possible. Socialization opportunities have increased so that optional activities/outings are available weekly if desired. Parent workshops are offered each quarter, but also available are monthly meetings such as school site council and PTA style gatherings where dialogues can take place.