The Virginia Department of Education took the next step toward replacing its student assessment system, a move estimated to cost the commonwealth at least $30 million a year, after criticism over delayed results, technology access concerns and frequent changes. Virginia began modernizing its Standards of Learning assessments (SOLs) in 2022 and this year, lawmakers advanced legislation to continue the effort. Seibert added that “For Virginia to continue supporting excellent teaching and learning in every classroom, the commonwealth’s assessment system must be modernized.” The agency said in an announcement that the new assessment system will include “more modern, accessible, and rigorous tests,” providing more timely information to educators, principals and families. For teachers and families, the assessment will also provide more timely, better-quality information to support student success, according to the announcement.