Disparities in Virginia Classrooms: A Struggle with High-Quality Instructional Materials

Strategic Insights -

A statewide survey conducted by the Johns Hopkins Institute for Education Policy has revealed a concerning disparity in the use of high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) in Virginia's K-12 English and math classes. The survey, which garnered a 23% response rate, found that 37% of English teachers and only 10% of math teachers reported using materials that partially align with HQIM.

This lack of consistency in the implementation of HQIM comes as Virginia continues to reform its assessment testing, aiming to boost student achievement. According to Chad Stewart, policy analyst for the Virginia Education Association, teachers are overwhelmed with the task of identifying and sifting through various curricular textbook options to find the best materials for their students.

Key Takeaways:

  • The statewide survey found that 37% of English teachers and only 10% of math teachers in Virginia are partially using materials that align with HQIM.
  • Fairfax County had the highest percentage of English teachers (88%) and math teachers (2%) using HQIM, while Virginia Beach had 31% of English teachers and 34% of math teachers using HQIM.
  • In 2025, lawmakers passed House Bill 2777 to update the review process and ensure HQIM aligns with state assessments and teaching strategies.
  • Research suggests that teachers resist HQIM due to concerns about their students' ability to use the materials and their own lack of knowledge in the subjects.
  • Dr. David Steiner, founder of the Institute for Education Policy at Johns Hopkins, emphasized the importance of professional development and peer-to-peer promotion of HQIM.
  • Board of Education President Grace Creasey highlighted the need for continuous professional learning for teachers and instructional leaders to effectively implement HQIM.

Statistics:

  • 37% of Virginia's K-12 English teachers partially use HQIM, while 10% of math teachers report using HQIM.
  • In Fairfax County, 88% of English teachers use HQIM, compared to 2% of math teachers.
  • In Virginia Beach, 31% of English teachers use HQIM, while 34% of math teachers report using HQIM.
  • 23% response rate for the statewide survey.
  • 10-15 minute online survey was conducted from September 5 to October 16, 2024.

Sources:

  • (https://www.doe.virginia.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/64107/638894579297400000) Statewide Survey by the Johns Hopkins Institute for Education Policy.
  • (https://virginiamercury.com/2025/05/12/virginia-overhauls-sol-testing-to-boost-student-achievement/) Virginia Mercury article on the state's efforts to reform assessment testing.
  • (https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB2777) House Bill 2777 passed in the 2025 General Assembly session.
  • Interview with Chad Stewart, policy analyst for the Virginia Education Association.
  • Interview with Dr. David Steiner, founder of the Institute for Education Policy at Johns Hopkins.
  • Interview with Board of Education President Grace Creasey.