FACT: On Standards of Learning (SOL) tests, schools must achieve combined rate of at least 75 percent in English and at least 70 percent on assessments in mathematics, and a pass rate of at least 70 percent in science to meet the state standard. This standard applies to the all students reporting group and each demographic reporting group. Combined rates refer to students who passed SOL tests and those who are showing growth. Pass rates refer strictly to the students who passed the test.
The state benchmark for absenteeism is that 15% or fewer students are chronically absent from school. Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10% or more of the school year, regardless of the reason. To be included in this metric, the student must have been enrolled for at least 50% or more of the school year.
The Graduation and Completion Index is based on a descending point-value scale with higher points given to a school with students who earned a board-recognized diploma. Fewer points are awarded for students who earned a G.E.D., are still in school, or earned a Certificate of Program Completion. No points are awarded for a school’s dropouts. The state benchmark is that a school’s index, based on a mathematical calculation of all these points, is at 88 or higher.
The state benchmark for the dropout rate is that schools will have a dropout rate of 6% or lower.