8, and geometry. Rising reading, writing, science and history SOL tests went against the statewide trend.However, three reading, writing, science, and history SOL groups were below the state average of 74 percent: third grade reading, sixth grade reading, and eighth grade writing.
“In some of the tests we had double-digit gains, and in different buildings,” Miller said. “That says a lot about our school system.”
The division performed well in each of its testing areas. History scores, for example, outperformed the state in every grade level. Elsewhere, math scored rose in seven of the nine tests administered.
“We are pleased with our students’ achievement on the Standards of Learning assessments,” Superintendent Jeffery Smith stated in an email. “All schools will remain fully accredited and meet the federal Annual Measurable Objectives. Our students exceeded state pass rates in every category. Even though the state has increased the rigor by requiring students to apply complex critical thinking and problem solving strategies, our students continue to meet the challenges.”
According to Stanley Jones, preliminary SOL test results allow divisions to continue studying data and adjusting instructional procedures to achieve high results.
He added, however, that the SOLs are only one way to measure a student’s success.
“We are not just concerned about how our students do at the end of the year, but we are also concerned about how they do day-to-day," Stanley Jones said.
Next month, the VDOE will release state accreditation and federal accountability reports, as well as updated school/division report cards.
More – To view state, division and school-level results, visit:http://www.doe.virginia.gov/news/news_releases/2014/08_aug27.shtml.