Spotsylvania County Public Schools knows where it stands after the Virginia Department of Education released a new accountability framework beginning in the 2025-26 school year.
The new School Performance and Support Framework will measure mastery in reading, math, science and English. It will also measure growth in reading and math, analyze chronic absenteeism, advanced coursework, graduation rate and preparedness for college enrollment, military enlistment or employment.
Schools will be placed into one of four performance categories: Distinguished, On Track, Off Track or Needs Intensive Support.
The new format does not currently include work-based learning, but the VDOE is awaiting final approval from the federal government to include it in the new accountability framework.
Under the new guidelines, SCPS would have 14 schools “On Track,” meaning that they meet the state’s expectations for growth achievement and post-graduation readiness. Nine schools would be considered “Off Track” and six would be in the “Needs Intensive Support” category, meaning they lag significantly in meeting the state’s expectations for growth, achievement and readiness.
If work-based learning is eventually factored in, 18 schools would be On Track, five would be Off Track and six would still be in the Needs Intensive Support category. SCPS Director of Communications and Community Engagement Rene Daniels did not specify which schools fall into each category.
Based on the current accreditation system, 25 out of 29 county schools are fully accredited and four schools are accredited with conditions.
Superintendent Clint Mitchell said he expects there to be a transition period as school divisions adjust to the new accountability framework.
“Continued instructional support is essential for greater improvement,” Mitchell said. “I am incredibly proud of the hard work of our students, teachers, and entire school community. We will continue to advocate for work-based learning data to be part of the state’s new accountability framework to ensure there is a comprehensive reflection of student accountability, growth, and success.”
