Supporters of the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) have launched a new advertising campaign in opposition to Ballot Question 2, which seeks to eliminate the requirement to pass the 10th grade MCAS test in order to graduate high school. The campaign, titled “Protect Our Kids’ Future,” features ads with a teacher and a parent arguing against the ballot question.
In the ads, Revere High School teacher James Conway and Concord mother Jill Norton express concerns that removing the testing requirement will lower education standards and harm marginalized students. They argue that maintaining high standards is crucial for the future success of all students, including those with special education needs.
The Massachusetts Teachers Association and other opponents of the testing requirement have voiced concerns that the standardized test disproportionately impacts low-income, special education, and English language learner students. They argue that the test requirement holds back these students and lowers educational standards.
The Committee to Preserve Educational Standards for K-12 Students, which organized the ad campaign, has pledged to vigorously oppose Ballot Question 2. The campaign, which cost $250,000, is supported by donors including Education Reform Now and private individuals.
The ads emphasize the importance of maintaining high standards in education and aim to persuade voters to reject Ballot Question 2 in the upcoming November general election. The campaign seeks to inform voters about the potential implications of lowering education standards and advocates for the continued use of the MCAS as an assessment tool.
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