We believe every neighborhood deserves a high-performing school. The state keeps track of school and district performance through an accountability system that allows the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to identify districts and schools that require assistance or intervention in addition to those that are demonstrating success.
We partner with schools across the Commonwealth to highlight best practices with other districts throughout the state. For some districts and schools, we provide targeted support, resources, and training to help boost student learning.
In the case of chronically underperforming schools and districts, the state takes control of the school or district, implements a turnaround plan, and remains engaged until student performance improves dramatically and sustainably.
DESE, the public school receivers, educators, and the local community develop Level 5 District Turnaround Plans that lay out new visions for each district as well as strategies to rapidly improve student learning.
Southbridge turnaround plan (Spanish)Holyoke turnaround plan (Spanish)Lawrence turnaround plan (renewed)
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education 135 Santilli Highway, Everett, MA 02149
Voice: (781) 338-3000 TTY: (800) 439-2370
Disclaimer: A reference in this website to any specific commercial products, processes, or services, or the use of any trade, firm, or corporation name is for the information and convenience of the public and does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.