Virginia Reading Scores Drop by Double Digits on New SOL Test

Reading scores for the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) exam fell by double digits after a new, tougher test was introduced this year, said the Virginia Department of Education. Virginia's new on-line standardized tests, which align with revised academic standards, represent a shift from emphasizing minimum grade-level skills to higher-order thinking skills and knowledge. "We are asking students to meet higher expectations so that when they graduate, they will be ready for college and the workforce," said Patricia I. Wright, superintendent of public instruction. "Raising standards is difficult, but well worth the effort." more

PCSS Alternative Compensation Model an Example for State

School districts across Tennessee must create teacher pay plans that factor in more than years of experience and degrees earned, and State Education Commissioner Kevin Huffman thinks Putnam County's Putnam Achieving Student Success (PASS) model serves as a good example. more

Pennsylvania Gets Its No Child Left Behind Act Waiver, Just in Time

The U.S. Education Department recently approved Pennsylvania's application for a No Child Left Behind (NCLB) waiver, just in time for the 2013-14 school year. more

Maine Education Commissioner Resigns to Take National Post

Maine Education Commissioner Stephen Bowen announced Aug. 16 that he will resign effective Sept. 12 to take a job with the Council of Chief State School Officers. Gov. more

Ky. Schools Look to Singapore to Raise Math Scores

Kentucky was the first state to adopt the Common Core State Standards in reading and math, and the state is expected to adopt the Next Generation Science standards as well, despite push back from critics who warn the standards represent a federal take over of education. more

Ritz in City Touting Education Outreach

Indiana Superintendent of Public Instruction Glenda Ritz visited Fort Wayne on Aug. 21 and met with Allen County education leaders to drum up support for the Department of Education's new outreach division for school improvement. more

Delaware Schools Receive $1.5 Million in Grant Money

The Delaware Education Department has awarded close to $1.5 million in grants to 14 programs that will have the biggest impact on students. more

State Releases School Ratings Under New Accountability System

The Alaska Department of Education and Early Development recently released the first results of the state's new accountability and support system for public schools. more