INFORMATIONAL

  The writing portions of the English Standards of Learning
  (SOL) tests at grades 5 and 8 and the writing portion of the
  English SOL test at the secondary level require that the
  student respond to a writing prompt.  In order to score the
  student writing responses and return scores by the close of
  school, these tests must be administered earlier than other
  SOL tests.  

  The writing portions of the English SOL tests will be
  administered statewide the week of March 9, 1998.  The tests
  consist of a multiple-choice portion which must be
  administered on Tuesday, March 10.  The direct writing
  portion of the test must be administered statewide on
  Wednesday, March 11.  Make-up tests for students absent on
  the statewide testing dates should be scheduled between
  March 12 and March 20, 1998.  

  A more specific timetable outlining the dates for receipt of
  secure and non-secure materials and the return of these
  materials will be sent at a later date to your Division
  Director of Testing.  

  We have appreciated your patience and cooperation as we have
  launched the new assessment program.  Should you have
  questions regarding the program, please contact the Division
  of Assessment and Reporting at (804) 225-2102.   


  RTL/jc