Commissioner's Back-to-School Update

Never Stop Learning.

August 2022

As we head into a new school year, our team at DESE is renewing our focus on teaching and learning. While we'll continue to help districts respond to public health challenges this year, we know that the core of our work, the work we're uniquely positioned to do, is about making learning engaging and exciting.

As we expand our deeper learning initiatives, we hope to see more educators empowered to make learning fun again. Every student deserves the type of classroom that keeps them asking questions long after they've left school for the day, the type of education that creates a spark. In fact, you'll see that spark reflected in our new logo.

Here's some of what you can expect to see from DESE this year:

Deeper learning: In today's world, young people need to successfully interpret information, apply new concepts, and collaborate. Deeper learning prepares educators to teach grade-level work that's interactive, relevant, fun, and helps students build ownership of their learning.

Educator diversity: Studies show that all students benefit from having racially and ethnically diverse teachers. That's why the state is collaborating with districts and schools on several initiatives focused on attracting and retaining talented educators from diverse backgrounds.

Early College: To help more Massachusetts students enroll and succeed in college, Early College partnerships between high schools and colleges give underrepresented students the chance to earn college credit while still in high school.

You might also enjoy viewing and sharing our back-to-school and partnership web pages and our back-to-school public service announcement, which recognizes how learning is rooted in community. And as always, our Superintendent's Checklist is posted to help administrative teams map out deadlines and responsibilities during the year.

Just like our students, we never stop learning, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you. Thank you for all that you do, and best wishes for the coming school year.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey C. Riley
Commissioner

Last Updated: August 30, 2022