Standards of Learning; consultation on revision, etc.
Impact
The bill pursues a significant overhaul of school academic support structures, especially pertaining to reading and literacy education. It requires school boards to provide structured intervention services including specialized instruction for students who show substantial deficiencies in their reading skills. Furthermore, the implementation of these intervention measures is essential for promoting students from grade three to grade four, thereby directly influencing retention and promotion policies.
Summary
House Bill 1851 aims to enhance literacy and academic performance among students in Virginia, with a focus on early intervention for reading skills. It mandates local school divisions to implement evidence-based literacy instruction for students from kindergarten to grade three, which must be aligned with the 'science of reading' principles. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of individualized student reading plans that document interventions, monitoring, and the specific needs of students demonstrating deficiencies based on assessment results.
Contention
While the intent to improve literacy among young learners is broadly supported, there are points of contention among educators regarding the scalability and feasibility of the proposed mandates. Some argue that local school divisions may struggle with the resources necessary to implement the requirements adequately, particularly in areas lacking trained personnel or funding. The discussions raised concerns about the specific strategies deemed effective and the potential overemphasis on standardized approaches, which could overlook the unique needs of diverse student populations.
An Act to amend and reenact § 22.1-253.13:3, as it is currently effective and as it shall become effective, of the Code of Virginia, relating to Standards of Quality; state accountability; Standards of Learning assessment expedited retake scores.
An Act to amend and reenact § 22.1-253.13:3, as it shall become effective, of the Code of Virginia, relating to Board of Education; Standards of Learning assessments and related assessment methods; development, administration, scoring, and release.
An Act to amend and reenact § 22.1-253.13:3, as it shall become effective, of the Code of Virginia, relating to Board of Education; Standards of Learning assessments; through-year growth assessment system eliminated.
An Act to direct the Board of Education to require health literacy instruction in grades nine and 10 and remove any duplicative or outdated health instruction in the next regularly scheduled revision of the Health Education Standards of Learning.