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Board briefed on 2025 SOL gains and looming state cut-score changes that could shrink pass rates
Summary
District leaders highlighted modest gains in SOL pass rates and high state ranks but warned that proposed cut-score changes (to align with NAEP) and HB 1957-related accountability revisions could reduce pass rates sharply and complicate graduation credit rules.
Roanoke County officials on Sept. 4 reviewed 2025 Standards of Learning (SOL) results and sketched significant statewide accountability changes that could alter how results are reported and used.
"Generally, we're up about a percentage point in reading, one point in math, two in science and about flat in social studies," Ben Williams told the board, adding that the division's statewide rank improved to seventh in reading and sixth in math out of 131 divisions. He highlighted notable gains including a seven-point jump in fifth-grade math and a five-point gain in sixth-grade reading.
Williams cautioned that the state is considering a major realignment of SOL cut scores to align with the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). "If those cut scores are adopted, we project SOL pass rates to drop 30 to 50 points," he said, warning that the change could have outsized consequences for students who rely on SOLs for verified credits required for graduation.
Board members asked about practical consequences and potential mitigations. Williams said states that have tightened cut scores sometimes adopt alternative verified-credit pathways or substitute tests, but he emphasized that Virginia's verified-credit structure adds complexity because passing SOLs is tied to graduation. He urged the board to anticipate a public conversation about expectations, incremental implementation and possible policy fixes that preserve graduation pathways.
Williams also previewed HB 1957 changes that limit testing windows and move some exams to the final days of school; he noted logistical challenges with expedited retakes and concerns about scoring changes if the state moves to a 100-point reporting scale.
No board action was taken; Williams said staff will continue monitoring state activity and report back as the state finalizes cut scores and accountability metrics.
