Governor Bob McDonnell has a list of changes he'd like to see in schools next year.

One change he'd like to see is switch up the way Virginia schools are graded.

Right now Virginia schools are ranked by accreditation, which they get if they maintain acceptable pass rates.

McDonnell says a letter-grade system would rate the schools on an A through F scale. He says that would make it easier to understand where the school stands, and it would hold schools more accountable.

A local principal agrees that this new system would be a good idea because it'd be easier for parents to understand.

"For the school itself and for the information from the division standpoint or from the school building standpoint, we kind of know where we are, but I think as a communication tool with parents, in terms of how those conversations go with parents, I think it's a good idea," said David Baker, principal at Frank J. Hillyard Middle School.

This is just one part of McDonnell's education plan that he plans to present in the upcoming General Assembly.

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