A Preliminary Study
June 1997
Dear Friend,
I am pleased to issue this preliminary study of test results from Massachusetts charter schools.
This report cannot offer a definitive statement on the academic progress of students in charter schools.
These early results are more suggestive than authoritative, and more data will come over the months and
years ahead. Yet, there are now sufficient data to suggest answers to questions about the academic
performance level of students entering charter schools, and at least preliminary data about the academic
gains those students have made.
The three key findings in this report are as follows:
In general, the academic performance of students entering charter schools was at or below
district or national averages. The early preliminary test results for charter schools are promising. Charter schools are using a combination of standardized tests, portfolio assessment, and
other performance measures in order to demonstrate educational results.
I would like to acknowledge Scott Hamilton, Associate Commissioner for Charter Schools, Paul Herdman and
the other Department of Elementary and Secondary Education staff for their work in developing this report.
For more information, please contact them at:
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
350 Main Street
Malden, Massachusetts 02148
781-338-3000
Sincerely,
Robert V. Antonucci
Commissioner of Education
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