Spring Assessments Measure Student Learning and Progress

  • By Office of Student Assessment, Research, and Accountability
  • FCPS News
  • April 14, 2026

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Students will be participating in spring assessments based on their grade level and courses. This includes standardized benchmark assessments and progress assessments. This list of  assessments for each grade level provides the spring dates for required tests. 

Each school sets specific testing dates and communicates schedules to students and families. Please review newsletters and emails carefully for this information.

Why Your Student’s Test Participation Matters  

Assessment is an important part of ongoing teaching and learning in the classroom. In addition to classroom assessments, projects, and final exams, Virginia students participate each year in Standards of Learning (SOL) assessments as part of the state’s educational program.

While no single test tells the whole story about a child, SOLs provide a consistent, statewide measure of progress toward grade-level standards. Your student’s participation ensures we have an accurate understanding of their academic strengths and areas where additional support may be helpful. These results help inform instructional planning, course placement decisions, eligibility for advanced or support programs, and—at certain grade levels—graduation requirements.

When students do not participate, school data may not fully reflect overall student progress, which can impact state reporting and public information about the school.

Our shared goal is your child’s success. If you have questions or concerns about testing, we encourage you to contact your child’s teacher or school administrator so we can work together to provide clarity and support.

How Families Can Help Students With End-of-Year Testing 

Parents and caregivers can help students perform their best by reminding them to get a good night’s sleep and eat a healthy breakfast, especially on testing days. It is important that students attend school on scheduled testing dates. If you are aware of a conflict that may cause your student to miss a test, please notify your student’s school as soon as possible. 

Remind your student that electronic devices are not permitted in the testing environment except for special circumstances, such as health condition monitoring. Review information about the FCPS cell phone policy and the consequences for having an  electronic device during testing .

Keep in mind, spring assessments do not mark the end of coursework for the year. Learning continues through the last day of school. In addition to information shared by each school, families may find details about  spring student assessments online.