2025-2026 Literacy Updates
We are excited to share continued updates to our reading program for the 2025–2026 school year! In recent years, the Virginia General Assembly passed the Virginia Literacy Act (VLA) to strengthen literacy instruction statewide. This law ensures that students in kindergarten through eighth grade receive high-quality, evidence-based reading instruction grounded in the science of reading, with additional support provided for students who need it.
What’s New and Continuing:
VALLS Screener (Grades K–8):
All students in grades K–3 will continue to participate in the Virginia Language & Literacy Screener (VALLS). In grades 4–8, students who did not pass the previous year’s Reading SOL will also take VALLS to help identify targeted areas of need.
Student Reading Plans (Grades K–8):
In alignment with the VLA, personalized student reading plans will be developed for any student in grades K–8 who demonstrates a need for additional support based on VALLS results. These plans guide focused instruction and intervention.
DIBELS Assessment (Grades K–5):
We will continue using DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) three times per year in grades K–5. Families will receive progress reports, and teachers will conduct ongoing checks to closely monitor skill development.
Division Literacy Plan:
As part of our commitment to comprehensive literacy instruction, we have developed and are implementing a Division Literacy Plan aligned to the VLA.
2024 English Standards of Learning (SOLs):
The updated 2024 English Standards of Learning are in effect and support students in building strong reading foundations, comprehension strategies, and critical thinking skills across all grade levels.
For more information about the Virginia Literacy Act, please visit the Virginia Department of Education website.
If you have questions about how these changes will impact your child, we encourage you to complete this Google Form.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we work together to ensure all students become confident, capable readers!
Our Literacy Vision
In Louisa County Public Schools we aim to cultivate lifelong learners equipped with robust literacy skills. Anchored in the Science of Reading, our comprehensive literacy program is designed to evolve with students as they progress from elementary to secondary school. We recognize that literacy is not a destination but a journey of continuous growth and exploration. In our commitment to literacy, we pledge to stay abreast of the latest research, integrating evidence-based literacy instruction into our classrooms using high quality instructional materials. By fostering a culture of reading, critical thinking, and communicating, we not only aim to produce proficient readers, but also to inspire a generation of informed, articulate, and empowered citizens. Together, we LEAD THE WAY in literacy, ensuring that every student in Louisa County Public Schools is equipped with the tools they need for lifelong success.