Board approves science standards, CTE committee reconstruction and school construction grants; other items advanced

The Virginia Board of Education recorded several additional actions during its meeting.

Science standards: The board approved the final 2025 expanded high school science Standards of Learning (covering 11 high‑school courses, including chemistry 2 and physics 2), which integrate scientific and engineering practices into content standards. Staff noted 48 public comments, eight public hearings and additional materials and instructional guides to accompany standards; the board voted to authorize technical edits and to implement the standards in 2026.

CTE advisory committee: The board approved a recommendation to reconstruct the CTE advisory committee to expand representation across business and industry sectors, CTE student organizations, parents, community colleges, universities, superintendents (including rural representation), and add two Board of Education ex officio members. Ms. Kilgore and Mr. Monk were appointed co‑chairs of the committee.

School construction grants: The department recommended 22 school projects and 1 regional CTE center for grant awards totaling $88,511,766 (from a $170 million pool available this round). The board waived first review and approved the recommended awards; remaining funds will carry to a future cycle.

Student safety guidance: The board took first and final review on consolidated guidance for sudden cardiac arrest prevention and response and accepted first review of guidelines for providing parent materials related to student safety and threat assessments, including required information on safe firearm storage under recently enacted legislation. Staff will finalize communications and continue stakeholder engagement.

Votes at a glance (select items):
- Expanded high school science standards: approved (unanimous aye).
- CTE advisory committee reconstruction: approved (aye roll call).
- School construction assistance recommended awards: approved (aye roll call).
- Sudden cardiac arrest guidance: approved for first and final review.

Board staff said several items remain in development and will return to the board for final action where required. The department will publish public comment opportunities, technical resources and implementation guides as items move forward.