STAUNTON, VA (Rocktown Now) — The Virginia Board of Education is considering raising the Standards of Learning (SOL) cut scores for grades 3 through 12 at its September 24–25 meeting. If approved, the changes could take effect immediately this school year with no transition period—a move that has sparked concern among local educators.

Staunton City Schools officials say the higher thresholds would paint a misleading picture of student performance. Under the proposed standards, only 40% of Staunton students would be labeled proficient in math and reading, despite steady gains in achievement.

Staunton administrators warn the changes could also jeopardize on-time graduation for many students. According to district projections, at least 90% of the Class of 2025 would not have graduated on time if the new scores are applied, even though Staunton students currently perform above the state average.

“This would place unnecessary strain on both students and teachers,” school officials noted, calling the potential shift disruptive and unfair.

Staunton City Schools recently announced that they climbed 70 places in Virginia’s school rankings over the past seven years and currently holds the 35th spot statewide.