(The Center Square) – The Virginia Department of Education will receive over $50 million “to accelerate K-12 student success” targeting critical students.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced the funding Monday morning, describing it as an “investment” that will direct resources to students in need, as identified by VDOE’s School Performance and Support Framework.
Youngkin argues that the money will “enhance the implementation” of the Road to Readiness Resource Hub, a transformational tool designed by the education department to provide “transparent, data-driven insights” into school performances and support for students, families and educators.
“With this targeted investment, we are strengthening our commitment to deliver for students across the Commonwealth by ensuring resources directly reach those who need them most,” said the governor. “Our students cannot wait; therefore, we are making these investments now to accelerate learning and unleash opportunity to succeed.”
Youngkin’s office said that $50 million will be a one-time investment. At the same time, the remainder, $1.25 million of ongoing funds, will be directed to the department’s Office of School Quality to support literacy, math and science specialists.
The $50 million will specifically support infrastructure, technical training, and “evidence-based support needed” in schools identified as Needs Intensive Support.
The funding investment will focus on leadership development and professional development; mastery and growth support, partnering with non-profits with an emphasis on school improvement techniques with “proven results;” readiness supports, with a focus on academic career plans, college and career readiness or work-based learning; new Virginia individualized education program system modules; and best practices.
The $1.25 million will be provided over two years for a new Office of School Quality regional support specialist in schools with students with the most significant gaps in literacy, math and science.
“Since day one we said we would prioritize resources to support the students, schools, and communities that need it the most. Due to the unprecedented amount of actionable information available in the Performance Framework, this major investment makes it possible to provide the schools most in need with tailored resources that are focused on enhancing school performance and ensuring every learner is on track for success,” said Virginia Secretary of Education Aimee Guidera.
