The U S Department of Education has announced that Virginia’s request for an extension of the flexibility waiver for the commonwealth’s Elementary and Secondary Education programs has been approved. This waiver will grant Virginia schools relief from No Child Left Behind-era sanctions and requirements.
“Today’s (June 3rd) decision to extend the flexibility waiver allows Virginia and its school divisions to plan for the 2014-2015 school year with clear goals for narrowing achievement gaps and improving teaching and learning in under-performing schools,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Steven R. Staples said.
The waiver requires the Virginia Board of Education to set annual objectives for narrowing achievement gaps in reading, mathematics and high school graduation rates.
While Virginia schools will still be required to make progress in narrowing the achievement gaps, as we should, Virginia may qualify for a longer extension in spring 2015 giving school divisions extra time to improve implemented plans.
If you would like to read more, please go to: http://www.doe.virginia.gov/news/news_releases/2014/07_jul03.shtml
