VBCPS presents new state accreditation/accountability results; about 72% of schools on track or distinguished

Division staff presented an overview of Virginia’s redesigned accreditation system and the new School Performance and Support Framework and reviewed how the results affect Virginia Beach.

Tracy Lagatta, director of student assessment, told the board that accreditation "no longer includes student performance on SOL tests, absenteeism, and graduation like it did in the past," and instead focuses on compliance with the Standards of Accreditation — areas such as instructional programs, leadership, facilities, safety and community engagement. She said principals will be required to certify certain compliance elements and the VDOE will provide additional guidance this year.

Lagatta explained the accountability framework’s four components — mastery, growth, readiness and graduation — and how index weighting affects school scores. Based on the state's first application of the new framework, she said approximately 72% of Virginia Beach schools are classified as "on track" or "distinguished," while a portion of schools were identified for "targeted support and improvement" (TSI), often driven by subgroup performance such as students with disabilities.

Board members asked about the role of facilities and safety in accreditation, the impact of new federal subgroup thresholds (15 test takers vs. previous 30), and the phased-in increases in SOL cut scores. Several members urged clear, parent‑friendly one‑pagers and suggested board members observe school support meetings to better understand division supports for targeted schools.

Lagatta and superintendent Robertson said staff will provide family‑friendly materials and continue targeted supports (including tutoring funds and program adjustments) to address subgroup gaps and to limit negative impacts on whole‑school classifications.