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 #2025-16 | Update for April 25, 2025
Latest Federal Updates:
This Week's To-Dos:
Meeting Workforce Needs:
This Week's Articles:
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Latest Federal Updates
As shared in last Friday’s communication to division superintendents, all LEAs are requested to submit an Assurance of Compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA). This request is in response to priority concerns outlined in the Chief State School Officers and Superintendents Letter dated March 28, 2025.
FERPA and PPRA underscore our agency’s foundational values—parental involvement, student dignity, and educational integrity. These laws not only protect student privacy and parental rights, but also promote meaningful collaboration between families and schools, which is essential to student success across the Commonwealth.
LEAs are asked to complete the Virginia Assurance of Compliance Form available here. In addition to the form, divisions may include an addendum with supporting documentation such as:
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Reports
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Policy and procedure overviews
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Annual parent and student notifications
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Training manuals
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Other relevant evidence of compliance
Resources for LEAs and Families
Presidential Action – Days of Remembrance of Victims of the Holocaust, 2025
Article: 2025-16-204
Audience: Superintendents, Directors, School Principals, Teachers
Contact: Christonya Brown, History and Social Science Coordinator, vdoe.hss@doe.virginia.gov
On April 23, 2025, President Donald J. Trump, through Presidential Action-Days of Remembrance of Victims of the Holocaust, 2025, recognized the Days of Remembrance of victims of the Holocaust from April 20-27, 2025. This proclamation honors the memory of the over six million victims of the Holocaust and Nazi persecution by remembering the lessons of the atrocities of the Holocaust so as to never be repeated.
As reflected in the Guiding Principles of the 2023 History and Social Science Standards of Learning, the standards provide an unflinching and fact-based coverage of world, United States, and Virginia history. Students will study the horrors of wars and genocide, including the Holocaust and the ethnic cleansing campaigns that have occurred throughout history and continue today. These Guiding Principles are reflected in the History and Social Science Instructional Guides – particularly, as related to this Presidential Action – United States History 1865 to the Present and World History and Geography 1500 A.D. to the Present.
Leading the Charge in AI Education
Article: 2025-16-203
Audience: Superintendents, Directors, School Principals, Teachers
Contact: Calypso Gilstrap, Associate Director, Office of Educational Technology and Classroom Innovation, Calypso.Gilstrap@doe.virginia.gov
As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to transform industries and daily life, the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has taken significant steps to prepare students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate this evolving technology. This initiative aligns closely with the White House’s executive order issued on April 23, 2025, Advancing Artificial Intelligence Education for American Youth, emphasizing the importance of integrating AI into K-12 education, providing teacher training, and fostering workforce development.
Key Virginia initiatives include:
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Executive Order 30 – Directing VDOE to develop AI tools, instructional resources, and implementation strategies for all education levels.
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AI Integration Guidelines – Emphasizing ethical AI use, teacher training, industry collaboration, and adaptive learning strategies.
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Virginia Educational Technology Plan (2024-2029) – Advancing AI-powered instruction, professional development, and readiness guides for educators.
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Generative AI Teacher Training – Providing workshops across Virginia to equip educators with AI-driven instructional strategies.
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VASS Year of Learning Initiative – Supporting AI integration in 75 school systems with in-person training and resource-sharing.
- VDOE AI Advisory Committee – Offering strategic guidance on AI adoption and responsible digital practices.
The 2024 Computer Science Standards of Learning and 2020 Digital Learning Integration Standards of Learning prepare K-12 students for rapid technological advancements, equipping them with AI literacy, technical proficiency, and responsible digital citizenship. Integrated into K-8 curricula with standalone courses in high school, the Computer Science standards provide foundational knowledge in computing, data analysis, machine learning, programming, and AI applications developing the expertise needed to harness emerging technologies for responsible innovation, preparing them for college, career success, and active digital citizenship.
As Virginia refines its AI education strategy, the 2027 update to the Digital Learning Integration Standards will further emphasize AI, digital citizenship, and media literacy. These enhancements ensure students can leverage AI to innovate, solve complex problems, and succeed in college, careers, and an AI-driven society.
Explore classroom innovations by tuning into the ActiVAtED Learning Podcast, where Virginia’s leading educators highlight the transformative role of technology in schools, share real-world success stories, and discuss how AI and digital tools are shaping the future of learning.
For further updates on Virginia’s education initiatives, visit the Virginia Department of Education Technology in Education webpage.
Submission Compliance with Title VI and Students V. Harvard
Article: 2025-16-202
Audience: Superintendents
Contact: federalcompliance@doe.virginia.gov
Yesterday, VDOE submitted the agency's official certification of compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard. All of the Commonwealth’s 136 Local Education Agencies (LEAs) submitted their documentation prior to the deadline.
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Highlights
News from Across the Commonwealth
Congratulations to Principal Candice Welch of Queens Lake Middle School in York County Public Schools for being named the 2025 Outstanding Middle School Principal of Virginia by the Virginia Association of Secondary School Principals (VASSP).
Her leadership is grounded in building strong relationships, supporting student growth, and creating a school community where students and staff are inspired to explore paths leading to personal and collective success. #ElevateEducatorsVA
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Ms. Craft's second-grade class at Poquoson Primary in Poquoson City Public Schools recently had "Starbooks" Day where students participated in literacy stations! They enjoyed book tastings and treats afterward! What a fun and creative way to encourage reading and literacy! #EverybodyReadsVA |
The Center for Educational Innovation and Opportunity at Old Dominion University hosted a three-day Innovation Summit gathering educators, researchers, policymakers, and leaders dedicated to advancing educational innovation across Virginia and beyond. The summit allowed attendees to collaborate, showcase groundbreaking practices, and explore the future of teaching and learning. Representatives from all 15 of the Commonwealth’s lab schools were in attendance and presented on their innovative school models and curriculums. During the Summit, Dr. Karen Sanzo, on behalf of the Center, recognized Ms. Sofia McDaniel from the Office of Innovation for her leadership, support, and service in advancing College Partnership Lab Schools across Virginia.
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Cell Phone-Free Education
Winchester Schools’ No-Phone Policy Boosts Focus and Gains National Attention
Article: 2025-16-194
In Winchester Public Schools, their bell-to-bell cell phone-free policy has been a transformative force for both students and teachers at the secondary level. Students keep their phones with them, but upon entering each classroom, they place them in a simple, cost-effective pouch hanging at the front of the classroom. Their policy, which prohibits phone use not only during class, but also between periods and at lunch, has eliminated daily distractions and fostered greater engagement, focus, and positive social interaction. From the outset, the school division has communicated clear expectations with a consistent approach to enforcement, if needed. This consistent approach proved essential to their seamless implementation—so much so that some parents even requested that schools hold onto phones longer to reinforce the policy. Since adopting the policy in June 2024, proactive and frequent communication with families ensured full community support. There has been no pushback from students or parents throughout the year. The success of their initiative even garnered national attention, being featured on the Today Show, as a model for how schools can reclaim learning environments in the digital age.
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Poquoson Schools Sees Success with Cell Phone-Free Policy
Article: 2025-16-193
Following the state-mandated launch of cell phone-free learning environments at the start of the new year, Poquoson City Public Schools has experienced a smooth and largely successful implementation across all schools. As with any new initiative, there have been challenges, especially as students adjusted to new habits, but their intentional and inclusive rollout helped pave the way for early success.
Poquoson began implementation with a focus on community collaboration, holding multiple committee meetings and gathering input from parents and staff. The division had a marketing package with images and consistent language from which each school pulled materials to create a communication plan tailored to its students’ age group, ensuring clear, cohesive messaging. Before going on winter break, middle and high school teachers shared presentations developed by their administrators about the upcoming change with students and encouraged dialogue with the chance to ask questions. This helped students not only anticipate how they will be impacted but they could also begin to understand the reason why and how it would help them academically and socially. Additionally, a dedicated electronic device and cell phone-free website has supported families by offering information, FAQs, and resources.
While some students initially found the transition difficult, others quickly recognized the benefits. Several shared that it helped them better focus during lessons and engage more with peers.
Dr. Irene Winchester, principal of Poquoson High School, shared, “The impact went further than just an increase in student engagement in the classroom. We also saw a positive change in how our students socialize. We see students talking more in between class periods and they are more engaged during their lunch time. Change isn't always easy, but our community has been very supportive and we are glad to see the positive impact in our building.”
As the division continues forward, they remain committed to refining their approach and keeping communication open with all stakeholders. Ultimately, their goal is to create learning environments where students can be fully present, engaged, and connected. They are happy to see that vision already coming to life.
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Meeting Workforce Needs
Application Deadline Extended: Pre-Apprenticeships & Paraprofessional Apprenticeship Programs
Article: 2025-16-195
Audience: Superintendents, Directors
Contact: Shawna LeBlond, Director, Office of Apprenticeships, Shawna.LeBlond@doe.virginia.gov
The VDOE is pleased to extend the application deadlines for the Pre-Apprenticeship and Paraprofessional Development Program and the Paraprofessional Apprenticeship Program. Applications for both opportunities will be accepted through May 23, 2025. Applicants who previously applied do not need to re-apply.
The Pre-Apprenticeship and Paraprofessional Development Program establishes a pathway for divisions to engage homegrown talent early in their exploration of the teaching profession through the development of pre-apprenticeship programs starting in high school and continues engagement through their early college experiences.
The Paraprofessional Apprenticeship program invites school divisions to co-design, alongside VDOE, high quality paraprofessional development and well-structured career ladders for paraprofessionals leading to a “Master Paraprofessional” credential.
The Office of Apprenticeships, in partnership with National Center for Grow Your Own, will be offering technical assistance through office hours to any school division interested in applying for either of these opportunities. If interested, please email Shawna LeBlond, Director of Apprenticeships to receive the link.
Promoting Wellbeing and Reducing Absenteeism Webinar
Article: 2025-16-201
Audience: Superintendents, Directors, School Principals, Non-teaching staff, School-based mental health professionals
Contact: Sarah Bazemore, Behavioral Health and Instructional Supports Coordinator, Sarah.Bazemore@doe.virginia.gov
The Office of Behavioral Health and Student Safety is hosting the Promoting Wellbeing and Reducing Absenteeism Webinar April 28, 2025, 2:45-3:45 p.m. This presentation emphasizes the critical role of data in identifying chronically absent students who are in need of intervention. Additionally, it will address how data is utilized to monitor progress and assess the effectiveness of interventions in reducing chronic absenteeism.
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Teaching & Learning
Release of History and Social Science Instructional Guides Status Update – Kindergarten, Grade 1, and Grade 8: World Geography!
Article: 2025-16-192
Audience: Superintendents, Directors, School Principals, Teachers
Contact: Christonya Brown, History and Social Science Coordinator, vdoe.hss@doe.virginia.gov
The History and Social Science Department is pleased to announce the release of the history and social science instructional guides. Instructional guides are companion documents to the 2023 History and Social Science Standards of Learning – amplifying each standard by defining the core knowledge and skills in practice, supporting teachers and their instruction, and serving to transition classroom instruction from the 2015 History and Social Science Standards of Learning to the newly adopted standards. The local History and Social Science curriculum should include a variety of information sources, readings, learning experiences, and forms of assessment selected to create a rigorous instructional program.
Instructional guides include five distinct sections, now inclusive of dynamic and interactive components: Changes and Revisions, Understanding the Standard, Supporting Questions, Skills in Practice, and Concepts and Connections aligned to each standard.
Kindergarten, Grade 1, and Grade 8: World Geography will be released this week with the dynamic and interactive components. Next week, History and Social Science Instructional Guides will be released as follows:
Grade Level/Course Grouping
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Grade 9 – World History and Geography to 1500
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Educators should continue to monitor the History and Social Science webpage for additional information. Department staff will provide regional professional learning sessions through multiple means to ensure that teachers and those that support them (e.g., principals, central office personnel, directors) will learn about the purpose, intention, structure, content, and context for implementation. Further announcements of such training will be provided in upcoming Virginia Education Update newsletters.
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School Performance & Support
Deadline Extended: Application for Standard Setting Committees for Reading and Mathematics Standards of Learning Tests – Educators Only
Article: 2025-16-199
Audience: Superintendents, Directors, School Principals, Teachers, Division Directors of Testing, Supervisors of English, Supervisors of Math
Contact: Office of Assessment, student_assessment@doe.virginia.gov
The Office of Assessment is accepting applications for standard setting committees for the Reading and Mathematics Standards of Learning (SOL) tests. Standard setting is necessary because of the implementation of new tests based on updated Standards of Learning.
The committee meetings will be held at the Virginia Crossings Hotel & Conference Center in Glen Allen, Virginia, on the following dates:
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Mathematics: June 9-11
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Reading: June 11-13
The standard setting committees are responsible for recommending performance level cuts that not only reflect students’ achievement status but also promote high expectations for all students in Virginia. The recommendations will be considered by the Board of Education as part of a broader, comprehensive process for establishing performance level cuts. Committee members selected will be expected to sign and adhere to a Non-Disclosure/Conflict of Interest Agreement and be present for each day of the committee.
Deadline Extended: Application for Standard Setting Committees for the Reading, Science, and Mathematics Standards of Learning Tests – Community Members Only
Article: 2025-16-198
Audience: Higher Education Partners, College Faculty, Small Business Owners, Parents/Guardians
Contact: Office of Assessment, student_assessment@doe.virginia.gov
As stated in the Virginia Education Update # 2025-15, the Office of Assessment is accepting applications for community members to serve on standard setting committees for the Reading and Mathematics Standards of Learning (SOL) tests. The article is linked here.
Community members interested in participating on a standard setting committee must complete an online application. The applications deadline has been extended to no later than Friday May 2, 2025.
If you have questions, please contact the assessment staff at Student_Assessment@doe.virginia.gov or (804) 225-2102.
Seeking Public Comment on Amendment 8 to Virginia’s Consolidated State Plan
Article: 2025-16-196
Audience: Superintendents, Directors of CTE, Accountability, School Improvement
Contact: Mark Jennings, Executive Director of Accountability, accountability@doe.virginia.gov
After years of public input, work sessions, and meetings, the Virginia Board of Education adopted the School Performance and Support Framework to provide clear and transparent information to the public, hold high expectations for all students, and bring together the state and federal support systems. The Board noted during the adoption process that it would continue to explore the incorporation of high-quality work-based learning into the 3E Readiness indicator. After ongoing discussions, the Board will review the proposed criteria for the Employment section at the May Board meeting. More information on the criteria can be found on the VDOE website.
The VDOE is seeking public comment on this criteria that is included in Virginia’s Consolidated State Plan under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). The VDOE has already been in consultation about this revision with the United States Department of Education (USED) and the approval process is expected to be completed in a short timeframe as to not delay processing accountability results.
Public comments can be submitted through this online form until Sunday, May 18, 2025.
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Recognitions
VDOE Celebrates National Apprenticeship Day – April 30
Article: 2025-16-200
Audience: Superintendents, Directors, School Principals, Teachers, Non-teaching staff
Contact: Shawna LeBlond, Director, Office of Apprenticeships, Shawna.LeBlond@doe.virginia.gov
Wednesday, April 30th is National Apprenticeship Day. The VDOE, in partnership with Virginia Works, launched the Registered Teacher Apprenticeship program in 2023. Since it’s implementation, over 90 aspiring educators have committed to becoming teachers through this program. The program is designed to be a partnership between the school division and the educator preparation program to address local educator needs.
The apprenticeship model blends coursework and clinical experience together, providing aspiring educators practical extensions of coursework throughout their apprenticeship resulting in higher retention of theory and extensive opportunities to practice what they are learning. More importantly, they are paid a living wage throughout their apprenticeship therefore reducing financial barriers. 50 school divisions in partnership with 11 educator preparations have committed to preparing another 170 teacher apprentices starting in the 2025-2026 school year across the Commonwealth. Teaching is currently the fastest growing apprenticeship occupation in the Commonwealth. The VDOE celebrates our current and future teacher apprentices as they embark on their career in education!
The “Grow Your Own” efforts to address the educator shortage are ongoing and are designed to be collaborative. Recently, the VDOE launched initiatives to take a holistic approach to the educator pipeline such as addressing administrator shortages with a Principal Apprenticeship program, creating career ladders for paraprofessionals through a Paraprofessional Apprenticeship and engaging high school students through pre-apprenticeship opportunities. Any school division interested in learning more about these programs and how they can implement them within their division are encouraged to reach out to Shawna LeBlond, Director, Office of Apprenticeships at Shawna.LeBlond@doe.virginia.gov.
Celebrate School Lunch Hero Day – May 2
Article: 2025-16-197
Audience: Superintendents, Directors, School Principals, Child Care Center Operators, Teachers, Non-teaching staff
Contact: Katy Harbin, SCNP Nutrition and Wellness Specialist, Katy.Harbin@doe.virginia.gov
The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs (SCNP), and the School Nutrition Association (SNA) encourage schools to celebrate School Lunch Hero Day on May 2, 2025.
School Lunch Hero Day provides an opportunity to recognize the hard work and dedication of school nutrition professionals. Between preparing healthy meals for students, navigating student food allergies, and offering service with a smile, school nutrition professionals are true heroes.
Schools are encouraged to share celebration details with VDOE-SCNP via the Virginia School Nutrition Events Form and on social media by tagging @VDOESCNP.
School Lunch Hero Day Resources and Celebration Ideas
The SNA website offers resources and ideas for celebrating school nutrition professionals, including:
- hosting a reception to recognize nutrition staff,
- giving nutrition staff a shout-out during morning announcements,
- hanging signs and/or banners in front of the school, in hallways, and/or in the cafeteria,
- asking students to write thank you cards, and
- honoring nutrition staff with School Lunch Hero Day swag.
The same information is shared in SCNP Director’s Memo #2024-2025-76.
2025 Computer Science Champions
Article: 2025-16-191
Audience: Superintendents, Directors, School Principals, Teachers
Contact: Keisha Tennessee, Computer Science Coordinator, Keisha.Tennessee@doe.virginia.gov
VDOE is proud to announce the 2025 Computer Science Champions, recognizing outstanding educators who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and innovation in K-12 computer science education.
As the 2024 Computer Science Standards of Learning move into full implementation for the 2025-2026 school year, the VDOE acknowledges the critical role educators play in fostering computational thinking and digital literacy.
The 2025 Computer Science Champions are recognized across the following categories:
- 6th-8th Grade: Sarah Noffsinger, Chesapeake Public Schools
- 9th-12th Grade: Yvette Lee, Henrico County Public Schools
- Administrators & Counselors: Deborah Crawford, Frederick County Public Schools
- ITRT/STEM Coaches: Sandra Wilfong, Chesapeake Public Schools
These educators are recognized for their ability to inspire curiosity, foster critical thinking, and nurture problem-solving abilities. They are not only teaching students to code; they are teaching them to create, to innovate, and to think beyond the conventional. They open doors to endless possibilities, preparing the next generation to tackle the challenges of tomorrow and to seize the opportunities of the future.
The virtual announcement for the 2025 Computer Science Educator of the Year will take place May 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. We invite you to join us as we formally announce one of the CS Champions as the 2025 Computer Science Educator of the Year. Registration is required to attend the event.
For more information about computer science education in Virginia, please visit the VDOE’s Computer Science webpage.
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