Staunton | School system wants you to weigh in VDOE’s proposal to raise SOL cut scores

Amid a national and state teaching shortage, the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has been considering raising Standards of Learning (SOL) cut scores for 3rd to 12th grade students.

The adjustment may come as early as the VDOE’s September 24 and 25 meeting and, if approved, could drastically impact students across Virginia, especially in Staunton Schools, with no transition period for students and teachers to adjust.

The school system just celebrated moving 70 places up to No. 35 in state rankings, but the VDOE adjustment would make that achievement obsolete. If the adjustment is made, only 40 percent of students would be labeled proficient in Math and Reading, and their true growth and achievement would be misrepresented.

According to Staunton Schools, cut scores are the minimum scores necessary for students to be considered to have passed the SOLs. Statewide impact data from VDOE has not been shared with school systems. Changing to the new cut scores without a transition period is “a highly unusual and disruptive approach.” Past changes to cut scores were made through a review period and phased-in implementation.

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ICYMI: Staunton Schools news

• Bessie Weller Elementary’s state performance award highlights success of Staunton Schools
• Staunton Schools ranks 43rd in Virginia school divisions
• Staunton Schools encourages residents to speak up against federal school meals cuts
• Staunton Schools celebrates SOL success with No. 35 state ranking for 2025

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Based on Staunton Schools‘ data, 90 percent of the senior class at Staunton High School would be ineligible to graduate on time and 60 percent of all students would suddenly be considered failing. Any student with a disability who has made steady progress and moved from below basic to passing would suddenly be considered failing.

Teachers would have no choice, despite a teacher shortage, but to spend more time retesting students.

Staunton Schools encourages parents and concerned community members to speak up and reach out to the Virginia Board of Education or state elected officials about the possible adjustment before September 24, 2025.