District reports modest gains in SOL reading and math; state cut‑score changes expected to affect pass rates

School accountability staff presented the division’s 2024–25 Standards of Learning (SOL) assessment results and updates to the data dashboard, reporting that the divisionwide pass rates in reading and math are both 67% — reading up four points since 2022 and math up 12 points since 2022.

Presenters said many grade‑level and subgroup improvements were evident: notable gains among Black students, English learners and students with disabilities in specific grades, and marked increases in algebra I pass rates at Charlottesville High School. Staff emphasized that the state has approved new, higher cut scores for SOLs that will take effect in the coming administration, which will change year‑to‑year comparability and likely affect pass rates statewide.

To respond to the higher expectations, district leaders described instructional actions: continuing implementation of the Virginia Literacy Act (VLA)‑aligned professional development for K–8 teachers, adoption planning for a new math curriculum aligned with updated standards, use of new screeners for grades 4–8, and targeted tiered interventions. The division also reviewed strategic‑plan targets and said the data dashboard has been updated to reflect changed measures and new accountability metrics (including the 3E readiness measure replacing a prior index).

Board members asked how chronic absenteeism intersects with SOL outcomes, whether some subgroup declines require targeted support, and how the division will monitor fidelity of the new reading and math initiatives. Staff noted connections between attendance and outcomes and said more disaggregated analysis by grade and subgroup is planned. Presenters said professional learning and ongoing progress monitoring will be used to refine supports.