In recent years, state leaders in Virginia have taken a number of steps to improve student outcomes and support local high school transformation efforts. Most recently, the state’s board of education adopted a new accountability framework focused on student mastery of content. The state will evaluate high schools based on both graduation rates and the extent to which students demonstrate preparedness for postsecondary experiences. To increase the range of options available to them after high school, Virginia students are encouraged and incentivized to pursue multiple postsecondary pathways, which can include advanced coursework, approved industry-recognized credentials, or meeting qualifications for military service.
This new accountability system aligns with the state’s goal of providing local high school students with pathways to engage in postsecondary and advanced coursework, as well as in high-quality work-based learning (WBL) programs.
State leaders continue to invest in new school models through the Virginia Lab Schools program, promoting innovative, performance-based learning models through collaboration with the community.
To build on these efforts, state leaders could explore opportunities to broaden seat time flexibility policies and pilot new assessment models..
