Based on preliminary analysis of the 2010-2011 Standards of Learning (SOL) test results, 99 percent of Virginia Beach City Public Schools are projected to earn full SOL accreditation. The Virginia Department of Education will release the official results in the fall; however, it appears that Bayside Middle School missed the necessary benchmark in mathematics. Meanwhile, a preliminary overview of divisionwide data shows:

• Ninety-one percent of the elementary schools have accreditation passing rates over 80% in all four content areas - English, mathematics, science, and history.
• Twelve of the 14 middle schools have accreditation passing rates exceeding 90% in English.
• All middle schools have accreditation passing rates exceeding 90% in science.
• All of the high schools have accreditation passing rates exceeding 92% in English, 84% in mathematics and 86% in science.

The school division’s strategic plan, Compass to 2015, is transforming education in Virginia Beach. In addition to learning core content, students are developing 21st century skills such as critical and creative thinking, collaboration and communication, problem solving, and global awareness. As a result, they will become self-directed, independent learners, workers, and citizens.

“Educators, parents and members of our community all recognize that “teaching to the test” is not in the best interest of children,” said Superintendent Dr. James Merrill. “We are taking teaching and learning to a whole new level,” Merrill continued. “We knew that this transition had the potential to impact SOL test performance because change takes time. However, when students are able to think critically and problem solve, success on the SOLs will inevitably follow.” Merrill added.

Further analysis of SOL data will allow school and central office staff to identify specific resources and strategies to improve student achievement in core areas. Meanwhile, they will continue to seize opportunities to integrate 21st century skills into the VBCPS curriculum.

To find out more about the division’s strategic plan, visit vbschools.com. For information regarding SOL testing procedures or preliminary accreditation results, please contact the Department of Educational Leadership and Assessment at 757.263.1030.

###