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Testing Information

Testing Information

The Standards of Learning (SOL) for Virginia Public Schools establish minimum expectations for what students should know and be able to do at the end of each grade or course in English, mathematics, science, history/social science and other subjects.

SOL tests in reading, writing, mathematics, science and history/social science measure the success of students in meeting the Board of Education’s expectations for learning and achievement. All items on SOL tests are reviewed by Virginia classroom teachers for accuracy and fairness and teachers also assist the state Board of Education in setting proficiency standards for the tests.

More information can be found at the Virginia Department of Education Standards of Learning page.

Our DCPS Testing Calendar is below and will be updated with details/dates when available for Dinwiddie County Public Schools students and parents.  The dates are subject to change so please check back frequently.  The current view is in Agenda format for best viewing on a smart phone or small device.  You can switch to Month or Week view for easy viewing on a desktop or laptop.

Please encourage your child/children to:

  • Take the test seriously.
  • Be present each day of testing.
  • Get plenty of rest.
  • Eat a good breakfast.
  • Be on time.
  • Do well on the tests.

Testing Window Changes

Beginning this school year, a new Virginia law (SB 200/HB 299) requires students in Grades 7–12 to take SOL assessments during the final two full instructional weeks of the semester or school year.   Our testing calendar can be found here.

  • There is no change to the spring SOL testing window for students in Grades 3–6.

  • Students expected to graduate by the end of a term (term graduates) are not limited to testing during the abbreviated two-week testing window.

  • Students whose Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan includes testing accommodations or an alternate testing schedule will continue to receive those supports.

Changes to SOL Scores

Beginning the 2026-27 school year, Virginia will gradually raise the scores students need to demonstrate proficiency on most Reading and Mathematics SOL assessments. These higher expectations will be phased in over four years. 

During the transition, score reports will include a new, temporary performance level called Pass/Approaching. Students who earn this designation will receive credit for passing the SOL test for graduation and state reporting purposes. However, only Pass/Proficient and Pass/Advanced will indicate that students have met the full grade-level expectations.

Families who would like more information can review these resources from VDOE:

Letters to DCPS Families:

Should you have additional information, please contact Director of Planning & Accountability Toni Wynn at 804-469-4190.