COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
P.O. BOX 2120
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA 23218-2120
SUPTS. MEMO NO. 8
January 10, 2003
INFORMATIONAL
|
TO: |
Division
Superintendents |
|
FROM: |
Jo Lynne
DeMary Superintendent
of Public Instruction |
|
SUBJECT: |
Revisions to
the Criteria for Identification and Selection of Models/Programs |
At the January 6 Board of Education meeting
revisions to the criteria for identifying and selecting models/programs that
include instructional methods as provided in 8 VAC 20-131-310 B-E were
approved. The revisions are based on the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) of
2001 emphasis on the use of scientifically-based research as a criteria for
evaluating programs, particularly those programs purchased with federal funds.
The revised criteria are:
Criteria for Recommended
Models/Programs
1.
Scientifically-based
evidence of effectiveness: The effectiveness of models/programs are
justified based on scientific research that involves the application of
rigorous, systematic, and objective procedures to obtain reliable and valid
knowledge on the models/programs. The
major components of the model/program include instructional methods and
practices that have been verified through scientifically-based research. The research that documents improvement in
student achievement has presented convincing evidence that the observed results
were based on the model/program intervention. The model/programs effectiveness
in improving student achievement has been demonstrated in Virginia and is based
on effective research-based strategies.
Gains in student achievement on Virginias Standards of Learning tests
have been sustained over time.
2.
Implementation
and capacity for technical assistance: The model/program has
explained the essential ingredients necessary to make the program fully
operational, including estimates of the costs, with respect to time and money,
and the requirements for implementation. The program managers have described in
detail their capacity, in terms of technical assistance, to provide the staff
development, consultation, and support necessary for successful implementation
in a number of Virginia schools.
3.
Replicability: The
model/program effectiveness has been demonstrated through multiple
investigations in numerous locations with low-achieving students.
4.
Correlation
with or adaptability to the Virginia Standards of Learning in English or
mathematics: The content of
the model/program correlates with the Virginia Standards of Learning in English
or mathematics or the model/program can be adapted to the Virginia Standards of
Learning.
The attached list of models/programs categorizes the Boards previously approved models/programs as comprehensive (English/Reading, mathematics, or reform models) or supplemental/intervention (English/Reading, mathematics, or reform models) and the intended grade levels. The Department of Education will review each of the previously approved models to ensure that the revised criteria are met. Results of this review will be shared with the Board of Education for appropriate action.
The revised Standards of Accreditation require
schools accredited with warning in English or mathematics to adopt and
implement instructional methods that have a proven track record of success at
raising student achievement.
For more information about instructional models,
please contact Maureen B. Hijar (mailto:mhijar@mail.vak12ed.edu),
director, Office of Secondary Instructional Services, at (804) 225-2894. For more information on the process for
certifying adoption and implementation of instructional models/programs, please
contact Dr. Cheri C. Magill (mailto:cmagill@mail.vak12ed.edu),
director, Office of Accreditation, at (804) 225-2708.
JLD/MBH
Attachment
/administrators/superintendents_memos/2003/inf008a.pdf