Board approves 6–8 literacy intervention programs and expands approved K–12 math textbooks

The Virginia Board of Education approved department recommendations on two instructional-materials items: final approval of intervention and supplemental literacy programs for grades 6–8 (to meet Virginia Literacy Act requirements) and final approval of additional state-approved K–12 mathematics textbooks and instructional materials.

Grades 6–8 literacy programs: Department staff said this is the first time Virginia has had a formal list of 6–8 intervention and supplemental programs recommended to meet the Virginia Literacy Act (VLA). Anne Eaton of the Virginia Literacy Partnerships, acknowledged as a lead for the curriculum-review process, and Dr. Wallace (department presenter) told the board these resources are intended to provide high-quality interventions and supports for middle-school students identified under the VLA. The board clarified that approved intervention lists do not prevent teachers from selecting novels or other materials in the core classroom; Dr. Wallace confirmed the guides complement teacher choice rather than replace it. The board voted to waive first review and approve the list. Recorded vote: Miss Kilgore — Aye; Doctor Northern — Aye; Miss McPherson — Aye; Mister Rotherham — Recuse; Miss Holton — Aye; Chair Creasy — Aye.

K–12 math textbooks: The department presented the final list of state‑approved mathematics instructional materials for K–12 after a review process that included training reviewers and allowing publishers to adjust grade-level alignment. The presenter said the process expanded options for divisions and acknowledged that publishers sometimes reposition lessons across grades. Board members welcomed the expanded choices and external quality checks (EdReports) cited by staff. The board approved the recommended list; Mister Rotherham recused from this vote as well. Recorded vote: Miss Kilgore — Aye; Doctor Northern — Aye; Miss McPherson — Aye; Mister Rotherham — Recuse; Miss Holton — Aye; Chair Creasy — Aye.

Why it matters: The VLA requires approved intervention materials and the board’s lists guide local division adoption. For math, state-approved textbooks provide options for divisions aligning instruction to updated standards. Board members said approved lists are intended to raise capacity and quality while preserving classroom teacher judgment.

Implementation: Department staff and partners will provide timelines and guidance for professional development and local adoption processes. Board members asked staff to continue emphasizing teacher supports and rollout timelines.