Since Virginia introduced its Standards of Learning (SOL) curriculum and exams in 1995 and 1998, respectively, not only have pass rates on the state exams risen steadily for all ethnic groups, but students in the state have scored higher on several national achievement tests, according to a study conducted by StandardsWork. Average state scores on the SAT and the Stanford 9 achievement tests have risen in this period and more students have taken Advanced Placement tests and enrolled in International Baccalaureate programs since the SOL program began.
"Scores reported up with SOL test," by Rosalind Helderman, The Washington Post, February 27, 2003
"Study of the Effectiveness of the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) Reforms," StandardsWork, Inc., February 2003