Last Tuesday, Massachusetts voters passed a ballot measure repealing the requirement that students must reach a specific competency level on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) exam to graduate high school.
Following this decision, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) provided initial guidance to school districts, emphasizing the state’s commitment to high standards while transitioning to new graduation requirements.
The November 2024 MCAS retests in English Language Arts and Mathematics have now concluded, allowing Nashoba students who achieve qualifying scores to fulfill the current graduation requirements. However, when the new law takes effect—potentially as soon as December 5, 2024—graduation standards will shift. Instead of MCAS scores, students will need to complete coursework that the district certifies as satisfactory. DESE has informed districts that further guidance on these new graduation criteria will be provided after the law takes effect.
We will continue to keep families informed as more information becomes available to help students and families understand the practical implications of these changes as they develop. At Nashoba, our priority remains fully supporting our students and ensuring a smooth transition to the newly redefined high school graduation requirements.