VBCPS outlines shift to performance-based social studies, delays in science standards and new computer-science grant

Tom Quinn, executive director of secondary teaching and learning, presented a multi-part curriculum update at 00:45:18, saying the division will fully implement the 2023 social studies standards in 2025–26 and move toward locally awarded performance-based assessments aligned with House Bill 1957.

Quinn said the goal of the locally awarded performance-based approach is to shift emphasis from memorization to application and demonstration of skills, and he described a phased rollout that keeps fifth graders on the current Virginia SOL this year and transitions subsequent cohorts to locally awarded, performance-based tasks. He said the division will continue professional learning, site-based coaching, and the development of instructional materials to support teachers during implementation.

Quinn also noted extended delays in the release of the new science standards originally scheduled for approval in December 2024; VBCPS will move forward with expanded course offerings such as environmental science and certain level 2 courses while retaining 2018 standards for courses in the K–12 physics sequence until updated assessment blueprints are issued.

On computer science, Quinn said the Virginia Department of Education approved 2024 computer science standards with full implementation expected by 2025–26. VBCPS secured an Advancing Computer Science Education grant valued at $71,351.21 to embed computer-science instruction into middle-school science and support professional learning. Quinn said elementary lessons emphasize safe and responsible device use; middle and high school sequences expand algorithmic reasoning, cybersecurity, data analysis and other strands.

Quinn also told the board the division is working with VDOE guidance on textbooks and noted the VDOE had not released an updated approved textbook list, so the division is extending current adoptions and will provide updates.