The Virginia Board of Education took another step on Friday to clarify how schools will be rated and student performance measured to better determine how to direct state resources.

The board, on the superintendent’s recommendation, approved four performance descriptors: “Distinguished,” “On Track,” “Off Track” and “Needs Intensive Support.”

Schools considered “distinguished” are those that exceed the state’s expectations for growth, achievement, and readiness, while “needs intensive support” schools are those that “significantly” do not meet any of the state’s expectations.

The “on-track” and “off track” descriptors mean schools are either meeting or not meeting expectations. However, questions surfaced on where the terms came from, the benchmarks, and the descriptions behind the labels.

Under the proposed plan, Virginia will begin collecting data for the new performance framework starting in August. Results will be released during the 2025-26 school year.

Board President Grace Creasey, a Gov. Glenn Youngkin appointee, said the department will do more work to flush out the descriptions as the revision of the state’s accreditation system moves forward.

Va. Department of Education begins developing new accountability system

“I would like to remind us that the purpose here is transparency and understanding on behalf of not just people in schools, not just those of us sitting here in this room, not people who do education every day,” said Creasey on Friday. “This is for people to understand who are parents and families; and so while we’re deciding what the main categories are, these descriptors have yet to be fully baked at this point.”

Earlier in the process of revising the accreditation system, the board considered two different measures to track academic performance: an achievement index and an overall school rating, which raised concerns about the potential impact on low-performing schools and efforts to recruit teachers and influencing parents to seek other school choices for their children.

Since April, teachers, parents, students, and education leaders have told the board they support using category descriptions instead of an A-F rating scale.

The category descriptors are part of a larger plan by Youngkin’s administration to overhaul the existing accountability system, which focuses on accreditation and measures schools based on academic achievement, performance gaps, student attendance and graduation and dropout rates, and factors like building safety, student-teacher ratios and licensure.

Schools are then labeled accredited, accredited with conditions or not accredited.

Members of the administration and the board have criticized the current system for being vague and failing to address declines in student performance in subjects such as math and reading.

The administration’s process includes splitting up the state’s accreditation system into two parts: an accreditation system, to assess whether schools meet all requirements laid out in state laws and regulations; and an accountability system, to provide “timely and transparent information on student and school performance.”

Under the new system, schools will be rated based on students’ success, measured by their mastery of subjects and academic growth.

Stakeholders and the board are split on the weight factors totaling the overall score for each school level.

Earlier the board expressed that “mastery” is important to make sure students thoroughly understand the concepts before graduating to the next grade level. Others have urged the board to keep “mastery” and “growth” at an equal weight.

The overall score for elementary schools consists of three weight factors: 65% mastery, 25% growth, and 10% readiness.

In middle schools, the performance score is weighted 60% mastery, 20% growth and 20% readiness; high schools’ performance score is weighted 50% mastery, 35% readiness and 15% graduation.

VDOE staff said the performance descriptors would be in addition to the three federally required support and improvement identification categories: Comprehensive, Targeted and Additional Targeted. The designations are given to schools because a specific group of students may need assistance in catching up to the instruction.

Schools identified as “comprehensive” receive full federal support for the entire school, compared to “targeted” schools, which receive support for low-performing subgroups.

Va.’s public education accountability system overhaul

“This is all about providing a holistic picture to the public that’s more transparent, more clear about where schools are performing across all the indicators in the system,” said Anne Hyslop, director of policy development for All4Ed.

Last year, the department contracted with Hyslop to work on changes to the accreditation system along with Chad Aldeman, the Edunomics Lab policy director at Georgetown University.

Board member Anne Holton, former state secretary of education and an appointee of Democratic Govs. Terry McAuliffee and Ralph Northam, was the lone vote against accepting the recommendation, saying she needed more information about the descriptors.

“There are at least a dozen significant decisions, including one of the most important decisions of these ‘where the lines are going to be drawn’ that we haven’t made yet, even though we’re implementing the system starting with the school year that starts in six weeks,” Holton said.

She added that she’s concerned that the proposed accreditation system has not been “fully thought out” and will have “unintended consequences” on teachers, families and “our neediest students.”

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There are endless options when it comes to outdoor lighting. Halogen or LED? Electric or solar? Here are a few ideas to help you make the right choice for your yard.

Bulbs

Each type of bulb has its advantages. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

• LED Bulbs: Renowned for their durability, LED bulbs can save you money on replacements. They also consume up to 75 percent less electricity than halogen bulbs, making them an energy-efficient choice. LEDs are available in a range of colors and brightness levels, making them versatile for various lighting needs.
• Halogen Bulbs: These bulbs give off more heat, which can be beneficial in winter as they can melt snow around your trees, saving you some time and effort shoveling. However, they consume more electricity and have a shorter lifespan compared to LEDs.

Power

One big question remains: is it better to opt for lights that run on electricity or solar energy? Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

• Electric Lights: These are affordable and reliable. They provide consistent lighting regardless of weather conditions or daylight availability. However, they require more equipment, such as transformers and cables, which can be challenging to hide and install.
• Solar Lights: These are practical, removable, and low maintenance. They don’t require wiring, making installation easy and flexible. However, the light intensity can be weak and is limited to the amount of sunlight the fixture receives during the day. On cloudy days or in shaded areas, solar lights may not perform as well.

Considerations for Your Yard

When choosing outdoor lighting, consider the specific characteristics of your yard, such as its size, layout, and landscaping features. Here are some tips:

• Pathways and Driveways: Use LED or halogen path lights to illuminate walkways and driveways, enhancing safety and aesthetics.
• Accent Lighting: Highlight trees, shrubs, and garden features with spotlights or floodlights. LED bulbs are ideal for this purpose due to their brightness and energy efficiency.
• Deck and Patio: String lights, lanterns, and wall-mounted fixtures can create a warm and inviting atmosphere for outdoor living spaces. Solar lights are a great option for these areas, providing ambient lighting without the need for electrical wiring.
• Security Lighting: Motion-sensor lights are effective for enhancing security around your home. Electric-powered options are reliable and provide strong, consistent light.

Consult a Professional

If you’re unsure which product to choose, consult a landscaping professional. They can provide expert advice on the best lighting options for your specific needs and help you achieve the desired visual effect in your yard.

By considering the type of bulbs, power options, and unique features of your yard, you can create a beautifully lit outdoor space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

You don’t have to plan a trip overseas to have fun this summer. There are plenty of affordable activities you can do close to home. Here are a few brilliant ideas to help you plan a memorable summer vacation without breaking the bank:

Visit a Park: Explore parks offering various activities such as hiking, swimming, birdwatching, and picnicking. Many parks provide free entry or low-cost amenities, making them perfect for a day of outdoor fun.

Go Camping: Camp somewhere scenic or even in your own backyard. Camping is a fantastic way to disconnect from daily life and enjoy nature. Set up tents, tell stories, and enjoy the great outdoors without spending a fortune.

Cycle or Skate: Find designated paths for cycling or skating. These activities are fun and great exercise for the whole family. Pack some snacks and make a day of it!

Admire Sunsets or Stars: Seek out the best places to admire the sunset or the starry sky. These moments can be magical and are completely free. Bring a blanket and some snacks for a relaxing evening under the sky.

Check Out Street Art: Discover daring and engaging street art in your city. Take a walking tour to find murals and graffiti that tell the story of your community. It’s a fun way to appreciate local culture and creativity.

Drive-In Movies or Outdoor Theatre: Enjoy a classic drive-in movie or an outdoor theatre performance. These experiences are nostalgic and entertaining, often at a fraction of the cost of traditional cinemas.

Beach Fun: Spend a day at the beach playing volleyball, making sandcastles, or simply soaking up the sun. Beaches often have free entry, and the whole family can enjoy the natural playground.

Sweet Treats: Spoil yourself with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop. It’s an affordable indulgence that adds a special touch to your day out.

Berry Picking: Pick your own berries at a local farm. It’s a fun activity that ends with delicious, fresh fruit you can use to cook delightful desserts.

Campfire Evenings: Gather around a campfire to enjoy hotdogs or roasted marshmallows. Whether in your backyard or at a campsite, this is a great way to bond and create lasting memories.

Community Events: Take part in community parties or local festivals. These events often feature free entertainment, food, and activities, providing a fun day without significant expenses.

Explore Downtown: Stroll downtown and stop at places you’ve never been before. Explore local shops, cafes, and landmarks to discover hidden gems in your own city.

Guided Tours (Re) Discover your city or a nearby town by taking a guided or audio tour. Learn about the history, architecture, and unique stories of the area, enhancing your appreciation for your surroundings.

Photo Challenges: Challenge yourself to capture themed photos of nature or architecture. This can be a fun and creative way to explore different areas and appreciate the beauty around you.

Additional Tip: Do Your Research!

Many establishments like museums and historic sites offer free or discounted entry during summer. Some activities are free for children or on certain days of the week. Be sure to check out local listings and event calendars to maximize your budget and fun!

The Rotary Club of Warren County (RCWC) presented its annual “Rotarian of the Year” to Rob Grimm at its Wednesday, 12 June meeting at the First Baptist Church of Front Royal Fellowship Hall.  Rob has been an active club member since 2013, serving as a past Treasurer and Past President.  Rob currently serves on the meeting day technology team, ensuring our Zoom feed works well and recording and posting our meetings to our club website.

Rotary Club of Warren President Michael Williams and Rob Grimm, Rotarian of the Year.

Current RCWC President Michael S. Williams stated: “Rob is the epitome of Service Above Self (Rotary’s Motto). Rob gives so much of himself to our club behind the scenes, in areas no one knows about, and that’s just fine with Rob.  Specifically, this Rotary year, Rob helped us resolve some issues that required Rob’s skill set to be resolved promptly. Rob immediately stepped up, asking for nothing in return. He was just happy to help his club.  I am proud to call him my fellow Rotarian and my friend.”

Concurrently to the Town of Front Royal Open House from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 22, up Chester Street northbound several blocks, was the Quality Title-sponsored fundraiser for the Humane Society of Warren County (HSWC). This free entry event with games for the kids sought pet food, supplies, or cash donations in exchange for a meal hinted at in the slogan “Hot Dogs & Dogs.” All donations supported the animals housed at the HSWC’s Julia Wagner Animal Shelter, this community’s contracted public shelter for stray, abandoned, or abused animals.

Donations, be they cash or pet food and supplies, were swapped by attendees for not only a hot dog but chips, a drink, and ice cream. We’re sure the ice cream was appreciated in the heat and may have led to additional donations for that second helping of beat-the-heat ice cream. — I believe we heard some Ruff-Ruffs and Purrrrrs of appreciation echoing across town from the Wagner Shelter animals.

You help the Wagner Shelter animals eat, and you get to eat in the shade while the kids play in the sun. And that ice cream for dessert sounds good on a brutal summer’s day. Royal Examiner Photos Roger Bianchini

Thanks, Quality Title, for supporting the Humane Society of Warren County and its Wagner Shelter animals searching for quality Forever Homes. And remember, not only to protect you and your family in the extreme heat, but your pets as well.

The HSWC tent keeps these animal lovers in the shade. But for the adventuresome kids, the games were still in the sunlight.