RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Elementary and middle school students who fail this spring’s Standards of Learning tests by narrow margins or because of extenuating circumstances can retake the exams before the end of the school year. The Board of Education approved a resolution Thursday allowing the expedited retesting in grades three through eight, with the exception of the eight-grade writing test. Board president Christian Braunlich says these aren’t high-stakes tests, but the board wants to be responsive to students who want a second chance before the end of the year. Expedited retakes have been allowed since 2000 for high school students who barely fail end-of-course exams linked to diploma requirements.
