PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, Standards of Learning test scores for students in the 7th grade through their senior year will count for 10% of a student’s final grade, according to newly-signed legislation by Gov. Glenn Youngkin.
The goal of the legislation, according to officials, is to raise student performance throughout the state.
10 On Your Side spoke to a parent who said this will add pressure on their student.
“I think that it requires the teachers to teach to the test rather than students actually gaining a better understanding of the curriculum,” said parent Alex Ortiz.
Another change to the tests is how the SOLs will be scored. Starting in the new year, SOLs will be scored on a 100-point scale. End of course assessments will also have to be given no earlier than two weeks before the last day of school.
But these changes are not coming right away. Many schools across the Commonwealth are still waiting on the Virginia Department of Education for guidance on the new changes.
10 On Your Side reached out to school systems across Hampton Roads.
Portsmouth Public Schools provided a statement.
“Divisions have been made aware of the new legislation; however, there are still many questions that have been unanswered about the rollout of these new procedures. At this time, administration and staff are still awaiting more guidance and clarifying information from the VDOE,” said Dr. Lauren Nolasco, chief communications officer for Portsmouth Public Schools.
For more information on the SOL assessment program, click here.
Continue to check WAVY.com for updates.