The Massachusetts Board of Elementary and Secondary Education
Revised Motion on Proposed Amendments to Competency Determination Regulations on High School Science, 603 CMR 30.00
After additional reflection and discussion, I have decided to seek further input from the field before making a recommendation to the Board regarding the potential phasing out of high school science tests in chemistry and technology/engineering. While the content of my November 9 memo remains accurate, I hope to gather additional insights to present to the Board later this winter when I make a recommendation regarding science subjects to be tested.
The attached revised motion only seeks public comment on the proposed changes to the Competency Determination Regulations on High School Science, 603 CMR 30.00. The amendments provide an interim standard for the classes of 2023 and 2024 that will be similar to the level of achievement currently required to meet the CD standard for science (220/Needs Improvement) and remove references to specific subject area high school tests, granting the Board the authority to determine which subject area tests will be offered to students in order to meet the CD requirements. At this time, I am not recommending that the Board act to change the subject area tests available in high school science: biology, chemistry, introductory physics, or technology/engineering.
Enclosure:
