It's MCAS Season and Changes are Afloat

This morning, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education issued a memorandum

addressing the upcoming MCAS testing. Not surprising the state is adjusting MCAS in light of the unusual circumstances of last spring and the continued hybrid/remote learning platforms being utilized this school year.

MCAS for grades 3 through 8 will be altered for both time and content. It’s our understanding that testing will be done through a “session sampling approach” which we interpret will involve students taking a portion of the traditional test. Ninth graders typically take their Biology MCAS in February, however, the state is now permitting districts to shift the testing to June.

For seniors (Class of 2021) who have not yet successfully passed MCAS, Commissioner Riley will be recommending to the Board of DESE that these students receive their diploma if they are able to pass an approved course and are able to demonstrate competency in the subject area, without obtaining a passing MCAS score.

Students who are classified as English Language Learners and usually sit for the ACCESS test in February. This year, this test window has been extended to May 20, 2021

We will continue to monitor develops and do our best to provide you with timely information. Should you have concerns or questions about how these changes in MCAS will affect your student, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help!