Approving Revised Criteria for Recommended Models/Programs that Include Instructional Methods to Satisfy Provisions in Regulations Establishing Accrediting Standards for Public Schools in Virginia
Resolution Number 2003-39
November 19, 2003
Resolved:
The Board of Education approves revisions based on the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB) 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
- 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’s/program’s effectiveness in improving student achievement has been demonstrated in Virginia and is based on effective research-based strategies. Gains in student achievement on Virginia’s Standards of Learning tests have been sustained over time.
- 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.
- Replicability: The model/program effectiveness has been demonstrated through multiple investigations in numerous locations with low-achieving students.
- 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.
Disclaimers
- Recommendation of instructional methods or models/programs with a proven track record is not intended as a guarantee that the program will be successful as implemented in a particular school. Prior to or concurrently with adopting any model/program, a school is expected to align its curriculum with the Standards of Learning. School divisions are permitted to choose instructional methods or models/programs that are not recommended so long as they meet the Board of Education's criteria.
- Some of the instructional models/programs have an associated textbook that may not be on the list of instructional materials reviewed or recommended as part of the state textbook adoption process. Recommendation of a model or instructional method should not be interpreted as endorsement of the associated textbook materials. Before adopting any model/program with associated materials, the school should determine whether there is sufficient Standards of Learning correlation for the grade level or course where the method will be used.
- Products and services on the list may not be available in all areas of the commonwealth. School divisions are responsible for negotiating contracts with vendors for products or services.
Thomas M. Jackson, Jr., President
Board of Education
Adopted in the Minutes of the Virginia Board of Education
November 19, 2003