I am writing to express my full support for the new Virginia School Performance and Support Framework. This comprehensive approach is critical to ensuring that our education system is transparent, accountable, and focused on preparing students for success. I strongly endorse the framework for the following reasons:

1. Graduation Rate: Transitioning to the federal graduation rate brings Virginia in line with other states, providing clear and accurate communication about how well our schools are preparing students to graduate on time.

2. Growth and Achievement: Virginia experienced significant learning loss following the pandemic. While progress has been made, we need to continue supporting the Board’s focus on high expectations for all students, ensuring that every student has the resources needed to meet their potential.

3. Chronic Absenteeism: The ALL In VA Plan has successfully decreased absenteeism across the Commonwealth by 16%, with over 1.2 million fewer absences. However, with over 195,000 students still chronically absent, continued efforts are necessary to increase attendance and ensure students are present to learn.

4. English Learners: The current system excludes English learners from accountability for too long. Reducing the exclusion period from 11 semesters to 3 semesters ensures that these 35,000 students receive the support they need sooner, allowing them to become proficient in English and succeed alongside their peers.

5. Performance Tasks: Emphasizing the "5 C's" (Critical Thinking, Creative Thinking, Communication, Collaboration, and Citizenship Skills) starting in 5th grade, along with career exploration in 8th grade, provides students with the holistic education they need to succeed beyond the classroom.

6. Middle School Advanced Coursework: Encouraging advanced coursework in middle school, especially in math, prepares students for future academic and career success. Challenging students early with subjects like Algebra by 8th grade is key to helping them meet the demands of Virginia’s growing economy.

7. Performance Labels and Achievement Targets: Clear and transparent performance labels ensure that schools are held accountable for providing high-quality education, allowing parents and policymakers to make informed decisions about school performance.

8. 3E Framework: By focusing on real-world outcomes, the 3E Framework ensures that students are ready for college, careers, or the military. This new approach measures student success through college course enrollment, earning industry credentials, or military enlistment, providing a holistic view of readiness.

9. Minimum Number of Students for Accountability: Reducing the sample size from 30 to 15 students will identify over 20,000 additional students, including those with disabilities, black students, and English learners, who may need targeted support. This change ensures that no student is overlooked and that schools can provide the necessary resources to help all students succeed.

10. Timing of Work: Despite the decline in SOL scores following the pandemic, 88% of Virginia schools remain fully accredited. This framework focuses on restoring excellence by increasing accountability and transparency, ensuring that schools are truly providing the best education for our students.

In conclusion, I fully support this new framework and believe it is a vital step toward restoring excellence in Virginia’s education system. I urge the Board to continue pushing forward with these reforms to benefit all students across the Commonwealth.