Key Assessments

Students receive a report card every nine weeks that indicates how well they are performing in each of their courses. In addition to the information provided on the report cards, the following assessments have been identified as critical for monitoring student performance.

In addition to the information provided on the report cards, the following assessments have been identified as critical for monitoring student performance across a variety of areas including college and career readiness.

• Standards of Learning (SOL) assessments measure how well students are meeting the state’s expectations for learning in the areas that are being tested. Learn More
  
  For all students with disabilities identified under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Individualized Education Program (IEP) team determines whether the student will participate in the SOL assessment or the Virginia Alternative Assessment Program (VAAP). Students may receive testing accommodations for the SOL under an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 plan. Parents should check with their child’s case manage to ensure these supports are in place before the testing date. Learn More
• The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholastic Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) assesses critical reading, mathematics and writing skills. The PSAT/NMSQT provides practice for the SAT. The assessment is administered in the fall and high schools use PSAT/NMSQT results to advise and counsel students as well as identify possible Advanced Placement (AP) course enrollees through the College Board's AP Potential program. Individual results are also used to screen entrants to the National Merit Scholarship Program.
• The SAT is a standardized, multiple-choice test that includes three sections: critical reading, mathematics and writing. The SAT assesses skills students need to be successful in college. The results are used by high schools for advising and counseling students and by colleges to make decisions regarding admissions, scholarships and loans, course placement and academic advising. This test is optional for students.
• The ACT is a standardized, curriculum-based, multiple-choice achievement test that includes four areas: English, mathematics, reading and science. The ACT assesses skills taught in high school that are important for college success. The results are used by high schools for advising and counseling students and by colleges to make decisions regarding admissions, scholarships and loans, course placement and academic advising. This test is optional for students.

Click here for a full list of assessments administered in the school division.