COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

P.O. BOX 2120

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA 23218-2120

SUPTS. MEMO NO. 37

March 7, 2003

INFORMATIONAL

TO:	Division Superintendents
FROM:	Jo Lynne DeMary Superintendent of Public Instruction
SUBJECT:	Phase-out of the Literacy Passport Test

This is a reminder that action by the 2002 General Assembly eliminated the requirement for passing the Literacy Passport Test as a condition of graduation. Specifically, the language, which is found in Item 138.G.2 of the Appropriations Act, states:

Notwithstanding the provisions of 22.1-253.13, Code of Virginia, and notwithstanding the provisions of the Board of Education's Regulations Establishing Standards for Accrediting Public Schools in Virginia, the Literacy Passport Test will not be available after July 1, 2003. Further, effective July 1, 2003, passage of the Literacy Passport Test will no longer be required for receipt of a high school diploma.

This change affects any student pursuing a standard, advanced studies, or modified standard diploma after July 1, 2003, who was a first-time ninth-grader prior to the 2000-2001 school year, regardless of the students graduation date.

If you have questions, please contact Mr. Charles W. Finley, assistant superintendent for educational accountability, by phone at (804) 786-9421 or by e-mail to mailto:cfinley@pen.k12.va.us.

JLD/cwf