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Most of the SOL publicity is slanted towards the idea that a student "only has to pass six of eleven SOL tests" to graduate. My understanding is that at least one of these verified credits must be in the math category, which includes only Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II. (I hope I'm wrong.) If this is correct, then a student who simply can't master Algebra is deemed unworthy of a diploma. Even in "the good old days when education meant something" we allowed students to graduate with consumer math. These standards allow a single subject to be a gatekeeper. (Algebra is a prerequisite for the other maths in the grouping.)
When the high schools' algebra (and others) scores hit the magic number for accreditation they'll be dancing in the streets -- and "only" 30% of their students will be denied diplomas.

Dear Ms. Shotwell:

Students beginning with the freshman class of 2000 (graduating class of 2004) will need six verified credits to receive a standard diploma. The verified credit in mathematics does not have to be algebra. Students could receive their verified credit by taking geometry.

When this requirement was approved by the state Board of Education, the Board also approved several options for students to be successful in algebra. There is a two-year course option in both algebra and geometry with the assessment given at the end of the second year. There is also a three-year integrated algebra and geometry course available for students to take. School divisions determine how the Standards of Learning in Algebra I and Geometry are sequenced to assure success of their students.

Students who are affected by the new requirements will be given opportunities for remediation (based on assessment results) and re-taking of the assessment. Again, school divisions will determine how and when these opportunities will be provided for students.

If you need further information, please contact Maureen Hijar, mathematics specialist, at 804-786-6418.