Important Update from MUES: SOL Information

February 25, 2026

Hello McNair Upper Families,

Students in grades 3-8 participate in state assessments each year. State assessments measure how students are learning grade level standards. Format and timing of state assessments vary by subject and grade level. See the table below. Test formats include:

• Standards of Learning (SOL) mathematics, science, and reading standardized tests with an integrated reading and writing (IRW) component;
• Ongoing local alternative assessments (LAAs) completed as part of classroom instruction in science and social studies;
• Growth assessments completed as part of classroom instruction using the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) for mathematics and iReady for reading.

More information about these assessments can be found on the webpage: SOL Tests in Elementary and Middle Schools (https://www.fcps.edu/academics/student-tests-and-assessments/types-student-assessment/virginia-assessment-program/sol). The Grade Level Tests webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/academics/student-tests-assessments/grade-level-tests) outlines the division testing schedule for required assessments at each grade. School staff will contact you with the specific dates your student is scheduled to take spring SOL tests.

The state allows elementary and middle school students who fail a spring SOL test to have another attempt before the end of the school year. Retests are not offered for the integrated reading and writing (IRW) component.

Parent/guardian permission is required for the school to retest any student in grades 3-8. A decision not to allow retesting will not impact your student’s course grade or academic record.  If you believe your student would benefit from a second opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and skills on the spring SOL test, submit your decision using the Parent Digital Consent application (https://www.fcps.edu/family-resources/technology/digital-resources/consent/directions). This application uses your SIS ParentVUE login. If you don’t have a SIS ParentVUE Account, you may complete a paper copy of the form and return it. These will be distributed in Thursday folders.

If you have questions about state assessments or about SOL retesting, contact your student’s teacher or our school test coordinators at McNair Upper Elementary, Mrs. Janofsky (mljanofsky@fcps.edu) and Mr. Matthews (wpmatthews@fcps.edu).

2410 Fox Mill Road, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Phone: 571-982-1700

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