Email from Senate of Virginia Education Bills Education Bills   Greetings, As May comes to a close and spring gives way to summer, many of us are looking forward to spending more time with our children or grandchildren as they begin their summer break. While the days ahead will hopefully be filled with joy, rest, and sunshine, the summer months will fly by, as they always do, and before we know it, students will be heading back to school. When they do, they'll be returning to a school year shaped by some important changes. Unfortunately, not all of those changes are for the better. Several education bills passed this year could have significant impacts on the upcoming school year. That will be the focus of this week's article.   Among the many education reforms passed by the General Assembly, one that stands out is HB 1957. This legislation changes our statewide testing system by requiring that Standards of Learning (SOL) test scores count for 10% of a student’s final grade. In my view, this was not a well-balanced, bipartisan effort, and I’m concerned that it will ultimately harm our students. Teachers are already under immense pressure to teach to the test rather than focus on delivering a well-rounded curriculum. Our goal should be to ensure students genuinely understand what they’re learning, not just memorize answers to pass an exam. True education means being able to explain, apply, and think critically about a subject. By tying test results to final grades, we're placing even more weight on a single measure of performance, one that doesn't tell the full story of a child's learning. Standardized testing alone does not accomplish that, and I fear this bill takes us in the wrong direction. These types of reforms are one reason why many parents are turning to homeschooling or private education, if they can afford it. Parents should not have to go to such lengths just to ensure a quality education for their children. Unfortunately, HB 1957 isn’t the only troubling legislation we saw this session. Another bill, SB 1031, passed out of committee but ultimately died during the budget process. It would have gone even further in undermining the rights of families, specifically those who homeschool for religious reasons. The bill proposed eliminating the long-standing exemption that allows parents to opt their children out of public education based on sincerely held religious beliefs. This kind of government overreach is deeply concerning and sets a dangerous precedent. This type of interference in our children's education is not the reform we need. It's clear that change is necessary, but no bureaucrat at the state or federal level will solve the problem alone. I believe that, ultimately, parents and teachers should have more say when it comes to children’s education. We need to return to the fundamentals: reading, writing, and arithmetic. And in high school, we should be preparing students for a modern workforce, whether that means postsecondary education or skilled trades. A one-size-fits-all approach dictated from Richmond or Washington won't equip our kids for the real world. Unfortunately, government overreach like we've seen this session won’t help us achieve that goal. In fact, it threatens to leave our education system in an even worse state. My staff and I are always here to assist you with any issues or concerns. Please don't hesitate to reach out if we can be of service. You can reach us at 434.374.5129 or by email at [email protected]   Honoring Our EMS Heroes – National EMS Week This week, we recognize the incredible men and women who serve our communities as Emergency Medical Services (EMS) professionals. From paramedics and EMTs to dispatchers and first responders, these dedicated individuals are on the front lines every day—responding to emergencies, saving lives, and providing critical care when it's needed most. During National EMS Week, we take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for their service, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to public safety. Whether racing to the scene of an accident or caring for patients during natural disasters, EMS professionals embody courage, compassion, and professionalism. Please join me in thanking our EMS teams across Virginia. Your work does not go unnoticed—and we are safer and stronger because of you.   Looking for a career where you can make a difference? Prince Edward County, named one of the 2025 Best Places to Work in Virginia, is hiring! They are searching for dedicated individuals ready to serve their community and grow with them. Explore current opportunities and find where you fit on their team. Current Jobs Available Foster parents, adoptive parents, legal guardians and biological parents: your experience is powerful — and your insights can drive real change. This Foster Care Awareness Month, join a group that’s committed to ensuring bright futures for our Commonwealth’s children. The Parent Advisory Council brings together voices from across the child welfare community to shape a better system. Priorities include promoting parent leadership development and ensuring parents’ perspectives are reflected in programs, strategies and policies. Learn How You Can Make A Difference The Virginia Veterans Network is designed to be the gold standard of service for our veterans and their families, delivering the best resources, benefits, and support in the nation. Explore the benefits and support your family has earned Centra PACE to Host Free Senior Social Day this July! PACE will host a Senior Social Day on July 22nd and 23rd at their facility—an event that is completely free and open to the public! This special event is designed for seniors aged 55 and older, and guests are encouraged to bring along their caregivers and family members for a fun and welcoming experience. Highlights include: Cookout-style lunch Games and raffle prizes Tours of PACE’s new facility addition It’s a great opportunity to explore the PACE program, connect with the community, and enjoy a day of celebration. No registration required—just come and enjoy! Empower To Grow (E2G) Manufacturing in America Grant The goal of this grant is to provide workforce development in key manufacturing industries, such as timber, energy, aluminum, steel, digital, and automotive. The U.S. Small Business Administration is looking for organizations that will provide technical proficiency and essential skills, including operating machinery, quality control, welding, utilizing industrial software, and workplace safety. Eligibility Be a for-profit or not-for-profit entity (including, but not limited to, small businesses, other-than small businesses, trade and professional associations, and educational institutions) Be in existence continually for at least the past three years Demonstrate experience providing hands-on manufacturing-related training and technical assistance to small businesses Submission The deadline to submit proposals electronically is May 27, 2025 no later than 11:59 p.m. ET. Apply Chatham Rescue Squad Stop the Bleed Date: May 22, 2025 Times: two classes at 2:00 PM and 4:30 PM Location: Chatham Rescue Squad Cost: Free!! Register now by emailing [email protected] Investing in people is an investment in your business’s future. STIHL’s apprenticeship program has been a game changer, providing the company with highly skilled workers through hands-on training and fully funded education. This approach not only builds a talented workforce but also creates long-term opportunities for growth and success. Virginia’s growing focus on apprenticeship programs is helping businesses across the state develop a sustainable talent pipeline. With access to well-trained employees, companies can stay competitive and continue to innovate. Read More Here DONATE Email Us P.O. Box 145, Clarksville, VA 23927 (434) 374 5129 Share This Email Share This Email Share This Email Senator Tammy Mulchi | P.O. Box 145 | Clarksville, VA 23927 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice