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HB 299

SOL assessments and related assessment methods; development, administration, scoring, and release.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dan Helmer

Virginia HB 299 expands state education department control over SOL assessment development, administration, scoring, and public data release procedures.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 102 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · HB 299

Legislative bill overview

HB 299 modifies Virginia's Standards of Learning (SOL) assessment system by altering how SOL assessments are developed, administered, scored, and released to the public. The bill grants the Department of Education expanded authority over assessment methodologies and timing while potentially changing how assessment results are shared with stakeholders.

Why is this important

SOL assessments are Virginia's primary mechanism for measuring student achievement and school accountability. Changes to how these assessments are developed, administered, and reported directly affect how schools are evaluated, how students are placed in programs, and what educational data is available to parents and policymakers for decision-making.

Potential points of contention

  • Assessment transparency and parental access: Depending on implementation, changes to assessment "release" procedures could either increase or restrict how quickly parents and the public receive detailed assessment results and data
  • Standardization vs. local flexibility: Expanded state control over assessment administration and scoring methods may limit local school districts' ability to adapt assessments to regional needs
  • Timeline and costs: Changes to assessment administration timelines could create logistical challenges and additional expenses for school districts implementing new procedures

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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