The Virginia Assessment Program evaluates student achievement through SOL tests and other approved assessments.
Students in kindergarten through eighth grade are required to participate in Virginia Assessment Program tests. Accelerated students take tests for the highest grade level of the content they’ve learned. Results help inform instructional decisions, which can include promotion or retention.
Middle and high school students must take all required end-of-course SOL tests after completing credit bearing courses. Students can earn verified credits by passing end-of-course SOL tests. Once they have a verified credit for graduation in each subject area, it is not necessary for students to complete additional end-of-course SOL tests in that academic subject unless required for federal accountability measures. Middle and high schools may also use SOL test scores to help determine final course grades.
Students with disabilities participate in the Virginia Assessment Program based on their Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan, with necessary accommodations and alternative assessments provided. English Learner (EL) students also take part in the Virginia Assessment Program. A school committee decides their participation level, and in grades K-8, they may be exempt from SOL tests in social studies once.
The School Board follows Virginia's Standards of Learning to guide instruction and awards diplomas to all high school students, including those transferring from private schools or homeschooling, as long as they meet the state's requirements. Graduation requirements are based on the rules in place when a student starts ninth grade.
To meet graduation requirements students must earn “standard credits” and “verified credits”. A "standard credit" is earned when a student completes 140 hours of instruction and meets the course requirements. A "verified credit" is earned when a student successfully completes a course and:
- Passes the end-of-course SOL test,
- Passes an approved substitute test (defined in 8 VAC 20-131-5),
- Receives a locally awarded credit for meeting specific criteria (FCPS Policy 312P), or
- Demonstrates mastery in English (writing) or social studies through a performance-based assessment.
Only tests approved by the Virginia Board of Education can be used to earn verified credits.
To help children of federal employees graduate on time, certain course requirements can be waived if similar classes were completed in their previous state. If a waiver isn't possible, alternative ways to meet graduation requirements can be offered. Other states' graduation tests or approved national tests, instead of Virginia's tests, are accepted. Parents must provide proof of relocation due to federal job orders.
Virginia regulations do not include what is sometimes referred to as an "opt out policy" for state assessments. However, state law allows parents and guardians to refuse participation in Virginia Assessment Program testing for their children. FCPS provides a process for schools to use when caregivers wish to refuse these state assessments. Schools use this process to make sure caregivers understand what refusal means for the student, including any potential impact for on-time graduation. Parents can contact the principal of their child’s school or the Director of Assessment and Accountability for more information.
For more information, please see the following: