PERSPECTIVE: Virginia wise to keep SOL test intact for Grade 3

» The history/social science component of the Standards of Learning should remain a vital part of third-graders’ education.

Two Sundays ago we explained our opposition to dropping the third-grade history/social science test in the Standards of Learning program. Last week Superintendent of Public Instruction Patricia Wright withdrew the proposal. We welcome her decision.

Influential legislators on both sides had expressed their reservations. During the discussion of the tests, sources that had resisted the SOLs at their inception spoke in favor of the history/science test and standards. The SOLs are accomplishing one of their principal purposes by ensuring that particular subject matter is taught. They have become part of the fabric of education in Virginia.

Virginia’s history standards have won national recognition. Birth confers citizenship. The teaching of history and social studies remains essential to creating good citizens. Children in the primary grades do not need to be subjected to nuanced constitutional arguments, but they ought to begin developing their understanding of the American experiment and of their country’s place in the world.

The SOLs have been tweaked and improved since their implementation. The elimination of the third-grade test would have marked a significant retrenchment. Although too much testing occurs, the third-grade test was not one to cut. Throughout the educational experience, including college, history, civics and economics do not receive the emphasis they merit.

Wright’s official submission for the board’s consideration at its Thursday meeting says, in part:

“The Superintendent of Public Instruction recommends the Board of Education authorize ... the Department of Education to (a) proceed with the development of Grade 3 History and Social Science Standards of Learning assessments ... and to administer the current Grade 3 assessment until the new tests are completed.”

We commend the message. The SOLs are not static; they will evolve. The process proceeds.

Richmond Times-Dispatch