The Massachusetts Teachers Association is sponsoring a ballot initiative for this November’s election (Question 2) that would repeal the use of MCAS for purposes of high school graduation. The state would be left without a meaningful graduation standard, which goes against the core commitment of the Massachusetts 1993 Education Reform Act. Without a baseline graduation standard, every district would establish their own standards or have none at all, leading to potential inequalities in education.
The use of MCAS ensures that students are meeting essential knowledge and skills needed for success in college or career. It provides a fair and reasonable minimum standard that students can work towards, with accommodations available for students with disabilities. Those who do not pass the MCAS have opportunities to retake the test or appeal their scores, ensuring they receive the support they need to succeed.
The common graduation standard has helped elevate Massachusetts students to the highest achievers in the country over the past 30 years. Repealing the use of MCAS for graduation purposes would undermine this progress and potentially harm students, particularly those who need additional support to succeed. James A. Peyser, former Massachusetts Secretary of Education, urges voters to reject Question 2 and maintain the current graduation standard to ensure all students have the opportunity to succeed in their educational and professional careers.
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