Word: mcas
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Dates: during 2000-2009
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...years ago, Massachusetts policymakers adopted a strategy of radical reforms for education. A key feature of the reform strategy was the use of the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) to measure student learning. Since MCAS was first administered in 1998, it has spawned a very vigorous, sustained debate. Initially, the debate was healthy and constructive, but now it has become distraction. We can continue to argue about measuring sticks, or we can commit ourselves to solving the fundamental, underlying problem: inequality in education...
...MCAS is part of a standards-based reform strategy based on a simple set of equity-driven, common sense principles and practices. The cornerstone is the establishment of high standards for all students. These standards reflect the basic requirements for entry level success in higher education and employment. Progress in achieving the standards is measured with regular assessments followed by consequences - an accountability system with interventions, rewards and sanctions based on performance...
...plan—which would close two elementary schools and move five others—is designed both to save money and improve the city’s school system, which is facing low Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) scores and major achievement gaps among low-income and minority students...
...Cambridge, students who do not pass the MCAS on the first try have the option to take a remedial preparation course before the summer retest date. At the very least, it is imperative that these courses be available across the state to all failing students. If the state requires this test—and makes it difficult for students who fail to matriculate at state universities—then the state must give students every opportunity to pass...
...School Committee is faced with a daunting challenge. Apart from pressing for broader reforms, it must do its best to help students pass this exam and continue to provide remedial help to those who do not pass at first. For students who do not pass the MCAS, even after their final retest, the Committee should issue “local diplomas”—not recognized by the state—to students who complete all their other requirements. Local control over education is essential, and at the very least, non-Massachusetts colleges will recognize that these students...