Outline:
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) – The Virginia Department of Education released its 2024-25 Standards of Learning test results and introduced Virginia’s new rating system in August 2025, which show that Harrisonburg City Public Schools’ rates were below the state average.
As 2026 begins, HCPS leadership is reflecting back on its progress and how to move forward after scoring lower than the state average in reading, math, science and history. Chief Academic Officer Joy Blosser of Harrisonburg City Public Schools (HCPS) said that although the SOL results may be below the state average, there has been improvement within the school system itself.
“I want to share that we were encouraged with our scores, because we have continued to increase each year, especially given the challenges that we face,” Blosser said. “We’re very aware of the areas that we need to improve in — specifically with students with disabilities, as well as continuing to support our English learners — and so I think those are areas where we’ll continue to focus.”
HCPS vs. State Average SOL Results
Data from Virginia Department of Education
| Subject | HCPS Passing Rate | State Average Passing Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 53% | 74% |
| Math | 57% | 72% |
| Science | 58% | 71% |
| History | 52% | 66% |
| More Data Here |
Blosser said she wants people to know that comparing a division to the state level isn’t necessarily valid, because different divisions have different challenges and different resources.
“One challenge that is really great here that we embrace is we have a higher proportion of English learners, so our proportion of English learners for our student population is about 45%,” she said. “When you look at the state, the state percent of English learners is 15%.”
She said another thing she wants to share is that the new accountability system that’s been put in place creates less time for students to develop language skills than research supports, which has also negatively impacted scores.
“Research has consistently shown that students [learning English] need anywhere from four to seven years to build those language proficiency skills that are going to put them at the same level as maybe a native English speaker when it comes to those content areas, especially reading, writing and some of the content areas of science and social studies,” Blosser said. “With the new accountability system, they’re only giving students a year and a half before they have to sit for that content area test in English, and then their score, if they don’t pass, is counted towards the overall school or division results. And so, I think that’s one thing that’s a little disheartening.”
Blosser said HCPS plans to use its core programs that have been approved by the state and its intervention programs under the Virginia Literacy Act. In addition, HCPS’ newly adopted K-12 curriculum, which it considers high-quality instructional material, will continue to be used to improve student learning and future test results.
Key Challenges Facing HCPS
- English Learners: A significant portion of the student population consists of English learners, which presents unique challenges in achieving academic success.
- Resource Allocation: Different school divisions face varying levels of resources and support, which can impact performance metrics.
- Accountability System: The new testing framework may not align with the time needed for English learners to develop necessary language skills.
Strategies for Improvement
- Core Programs: Utilizing state-approved core programs to ensure consistency and quality in education.
- Intervention Programs: Implementing targeted interventions through the Virginia Literacy Act to support struggling students.
- Curriculum Adoption: Leveraging the newly adopted K-12 curriculum to enhance instruction and student outcomes.
Future Goals
- Focus on Disadvantaged Students: Prioritizing support for students with disabilities and English learners to close achievement gaps.
- Continuous Improvement: Building on annual progress while addressing systemic challenges that affect performance.
- Advocacy for Change: Promoting awareness of the impacts of the new accountability system and advocating for more supportive policies.
By focusing on these strategies and goals, HCPS aims to create a more equitable and effective educational environment for all students. The ongoing commitment to improvement and adaptation is essential in navigating the complexities of modern education.