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Office of the Commissioner

Commissioner's Weekly Update

2021

January 25, 2021

  1. Board to Meet
  2. Picture of the Week: Framingham School Nurses
  3. Updates on the COVID-19 Vaccination Process for School Personnel
  4. Update to Guidance on Air Hand Dryers
  5. Upcoming LearnLaunch Workshops
  6. Accountability and Assistance Advisory Council to Meet
  7. Bullying Webinar
  8. Family-Friendly Resources for Help with Mental Health
  9. High School Science Modeling and Simulation Opportunity
  10. School Wellness Coaching Program
  11. For Your Info: BOKS

January 19, 2021

  1. Update on Flu Vaccine Requirement
  2. Picture of the Week: Pierce School in Brookline
  3. COVID-19 Testing Information
  4. Tentative Spring 2021 MCAS Testing Schedule for Grades 3-8
  5. Elementary Principals Convenings
  6. Upcoming LearnLaunch Workshops
  7. Middle School Science Grant Opportunity
  8. Bullying Webinar
  9. Request for Temporary Changes to Federal Accountability Requirements
  10. Guidance on CvRF School Reopening and Remote Learning Technology Essentials Grants
  11. Honoring Teachers
  12. For Your Info:
    • Girls on the Run
    • Tech tips to increase student engagement

January 11, 2021

  1. COVID-19 Pooled Testing
  2. Assessment and Accountability Update
  3. January 2021 Frequently Asked Questions
  4. Updated Supplemental Guidance for Student Groups and School Events
  5. Remote Learning Practice Profile on Simultaneous Instruction
  6. Preschool to Third Grade High-Quality Remote Learning
  7. Family Engagement with Pinnacle Partnerships
  8. Translated FAQ on Flu Vaccine Requirement
  9. DESE Resource Corner: Promoting Student Engagement, Learning, Well-Being, and Safety During Remote and Hybrid Learning
  10. Reminder about Student Privacy

January 4, 2021

  1. High School Senior Internship Education Project
  2. Draft World Languages Framework Available for Public Comment
  3. Massachusetts Family-School Partnership Initiative
  4. LearnLaunch Workshops
  5. Professional Learning through Kaleidoscope
  6. Student Learning Time Dashboard
  7. Announcing GLEAM Collaboration and Preparation
  8. Share-a-thon on Discourse Strategies
  9. Early Literacy Screening Assessment Grant
  10. Flu Vaccine Deadline
  11. Teacher of the Year Nominations and Applications Open

2020

December 21, 2020

  1. Board Recap
  2. Picture of the Week: Student Art from Jordan/Jackson Elementary in Mansfield
  3. Student Learning Time Regulations
  4. Updated Quarantine Guidance
  5. U.S. Senate Youth Scholarship Program
  6. High School Senior Internship Education Project
  7. P-EBT Benefits Extended
  8. "After Dark" Designation Applications Opening Soon
  9. Elementary Principals Book Group Discussion
  10. Fact Sheet on Cyber Threats

December 14, 2020

  1. Board to Meet
  2. Picture of the Week: Worcester Public Schools Warehouse
  3. Massachusetts Work Immersion Network RFP Posted
  4. Update to CVTE Cooperative Placements and Internships
  5. Early Literacy Opportunity
  6. DESE Resource Corner: Leveraging Student Teachers to Support Flexible Staffing Models
  7. MassHealth School-Based Medicaid Program
  8. Skills Capital Grants
  9. For Your Info: National Christmas Tree Display

December 7, 2020

  1. Updates to MCAS and ACCESS Schedules and Participation
  2. Mask Distribution
  3. BinaxNOW Tests
  4. Health and Physical Education During COVID-19
  5. Student Opportunity Plans
  6. Safe Schools Program for LGBTQ Students
  7. Local Contribution Study Released
  8. For Your Info: Technovation Girls Massachusetts Challenge

November 30, 2020

  1. Board Recap
  2. Picture of the Week: Colrain Central School
  3. Significant Disproportionality in Special Education
  4. Introducing the Massachusetts Work Immersion Network (MassWIN)
  5. Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and Dysgraphia PD
  6. Workshop on Designing Learning Experiences for Equity
  7. Health and Physical Education During COVID-19
  8. Professional Learning through Kaleidoscope
  9. Growing Literacy Equity Across Massachusetts (GLEAM)
  10. DESE Resource Corner: Superintendents' Checklist
  11. For Your Info: Free PD on experiential learning

November 23, 2020

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  2. Picture of the Week: West Street Elementary School in Southbridge
  3. Webinars on Risk Reduction Strategies
  4. Updated Quarantine Guidance
  5. Health and Physical Education During COVID-19
  6. InSPIRED Fellowship Application Now Open
  7. OPTIC Content Fellows Application Now Open
  8. BinaxNOW COVID-19 Testing
  9. Guidance on Preventing and Addressing Hate and Bias Incidents
  10. DESE Resource Corner: Updated web pages for Strategic Initiatives and the Kaleidoscope Collective for Learning

November 16, 2020

  1. Serving English Learners with Disabilities
  2. Picture of the Week: Carlisle Public School
  3. LearnLaunch Workshops
  4. Professional Learning through Kaleidoscope
  5. Reminder of Edgenuity PD for Partnering Districts
  6. Holiday Reminders
  7. New College Housing Scholarship for Unaccompanied Homeless Youth
  8. For Your Information:
    • Mental Wellness During Virtual Learning Grant
    • Artemis Moon Pod Essay Contest
    • Poetry Out Loud for High Schools

November 9, 2020

  1. Updates to Guidance on Health Metrics
  2. Picture of the Week: Paton School in Shrewsbury
  3. Mask Guidance
  4. Elementary Principals Early Learning PD Series
  5. AP Registration
  6. Reminder about Free Hotspot Opportunity
  7. Transition to In-Person Learning Support
  8. LearnLaunch Workshops
  9. November Share-a-Thon
  10. Deadline Extended for Hate Crimes Prevention Grant Applications
  11. VTE Framework Revision
  12. For Your Information: Family-friendly help with mental health

November 2, 2020

  1. New FAQ Installment on Ventilation in Classrooms
  2. Picture of the Week: Benjamin Banneker Charter Public School
  3. Webinar on COVID-19 Risk Reduction Strategies for Superintendents and Facilities Directors
  4. T-Mobile Project 10Million
  5. Deadline Extended for U.S. Presidential Scholarship Nominations
  6. 2020 School Health Profiles Data Collection Concluding
  7. LearnLaunch Workshops
  8. Updates to Edwin
  9. Early Learning-Related PD Opportunities
  10. Building Equitable Supports for Children with Disabilities
  11. Mass Literacy
  12. Professional Learning through Kaleidoscope
  13. InSPIRED Statewide Affinity Network
  14. Support for Designing Transitions to Full or Partial In-Person Learning
  15. DESE Resource Corner: Good Question!
  16. Additional Vendor for Screener and Diagnostic Assessments
  17. New Website to Help Prevent Child Sexual Abuse
  18. Innovation Pathways Planning Grants Announced
  19. For Your Information: MassCUE/MASS Conference

October 26, 2020

  1. Board Recap
  2. Pictures of the Week: 2021 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year
  3. Upcoming LearnLaunch Workshops
  4. Professional Learning through Kaleidoscope
  5. PD for Edgenuity and FLVS Global Districts
  6. Updates and FAQs About History, Social Science, and Civics
  7. For Your Information: Statistics in Schools

October 19, 2020

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  2. Picture of the Week: Rowe Elementary
  3. Requirement to Report COVID-19 Data to DESE
  4. Snow Days
  5. Updates on Transition Periods When Families Request to Switch in In-Person Learning
  6. Mask Reminder
  7. Strengthening SEL Skills During COVID-19
  8. Letter of Intent for Perkins V CTE Programming in FY22
  9. Hate Crime Prevention Grant
  10. STEM Week Challenge - Register for Free Project-Based Learning Materials
  11. Housing Help
  12. Massachusetts Migrant Education Update
  13. For Your Information: Virtual college fair

October 13, 2020

  1. Fall Reopening Frequently Asked Questions
  2. Picture of the Week: Billerica Memorial High School
  3. Update on Wind and Brass Instrument Use
  4. Free School Meals through End of School Year
  5. Workshops about the First Three Months of School and Supporting Parents
  6. Virtual Manufacturing Day
  7. National Principals Month
  8. PD Related to Edgenuity and FLVS
  9. MyCAP PD Series
  10. January High School ELA and Mathematics MCAS Tests
  11. DESE Resource Corner: New resources to support educator evaluation in 2020-2021
  12. For Your Information:
    • Family survey from Boston Children's Hospital/Children's Mental Health Campaign
    • Lights On Afterschool

October 5, 2020

  1. Board Recap
  2. Picture of the Week: A Remote STEM Project
  3. Youth Mental Health First Aid
  4. MTEL Item Reviewers Needed
  5. Integrating SEL into Academic Learning Grant
  6. Elementary Principals PD Series
  7. Career and Technical Education Partnership Grants
  8. Additional Vendor for Screener and Diagnostic Assessments
  9. October is Fire Prevention Month
  10. DPH Survey on COVID-19's Impact
  11. School Immunization Surveys
  12. Food Security Grants

September 28, 2020

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  2. Picture of the Week: Balch Elementary School in Norwood
  3. National Blue Ribbon Schools
  4. Remote Learning Technology Updates
  5. Leveraging Student Teacher Candidates
  6. Opportunity for High Schools to Implement Science+C Pathway
  7. School Wellness Coaching Program
  8. DESE Resource Corner: Work-based learning units
  9. STEM Week Coming Soon
  10. Flexibility for 21st Century Community Learning Centers
  11. MEFA Webinars
  12. Update on DESE Monitoring
  13. For Your Information: Red Sox Virtual STEM Day

September 21, 2020

  1. COVID-19 Reporting
  2. Picture of the Week: Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School
  3. Fall Reopening Frequently Asked Questions
  4. Families of Students with Disabilities
  5. U.S. Presidential Scholarship Nominations Sought
  6. Competitive FY21 Safe and Supportive Schools Grant
  7. Workshops on Engaging Students in Deeper Learning
  8. Additional Vendor for Screener and Diagnostic Assessments
  9. STEM AP Access Expansion Grant
  10. School Emergency Planning and COVID-19
  11. Student Members Needed for State and Regional Student Advisory Councils
  12. Careful Hiring Advisory
  13. Charter School Amendments and Applications for Renewal
  14. Chapter 70 Local Contribution Study
  15. For Your Information: Free student support courses through BC

September 14, 2020

  1. Mobile Rapid Response Unit
  2. Picture of the Week: The Bromfield School in Harvard
  3. Updates to COVID-19 Protocols
  4. Transportation of Non-Public School Students
  5. Remote Learning Technology Updates
  6. No-Cost, DESE-Approved Screener and Diagnostic Assessments
  7. Civics Literacy Conference
  8. Anti-Hazing Data Collection
  9. For Your Information:
    • "I, Too, Am the Dream" Contest
    • USA Biolympiad

September 8, 2020

  1. Additional Information for School Health Offices
  2. Back-to-School Resources
  3. Enrolling New Students, Consistent with COVID-19 Travel Order and McKinney-Vento Act
  4. Additional Flexibility for Educator Licensure and Staffing for the 2020-21 School Year
  5. Updated List of Holidays
  6. FAQs on Remote Learning Enrichment Centers Established by School Districts
  7. Student Members Needed for State and Regional Student Advisory Councils
  8. DESE Resource Corner: New Family Portal on DESE Website
  9. Vocational Technical Advisory Council
  10. Literacy Development Grant
  11. For Your Information:
    • Census reminder
    • Diversifying the Educator Workforce

August 31, 2020

  1. Supplemental Information and Resources for Remote Learning
  2. Summer Meals Program Extended Through December
  3. Updates to CVTE Guidance on Health Careers and Early Childhood Education and Care
  4. Supplemental Guidance for Student Groups and School Events
  5. Additional Childcare Options for Remote Learners
  6. Educational Options for the 2020-2021 School Year
  7. Vocational Technical Advisory Council
  8. Input Sought on Required "Lowest 10 Percent" Calculation for FY21 and FY22
  9. For your info:
    • Cube satellite challenge
    • Education Pioneers COVID Response Fellowship

August 24, 2020

  1. COVID-19 Updates
    • Access to Mobile Testing
    • Joint Memo Clarifying Key Health and Safety Requirements for Schools
    • Regional Calculations
    • In-Person Instruction for Vulnerable Students
    • Joint Guidance on Modified Sports Seasons for School Year 2020-21
    • Flu Vaccination Requirement
    • Teachers and Critical Support Staff in Remote Learning Districts
    • Children of Teachers
    • New SOA Plan Deadline
  2. Access to Mobile Testing
  3. PD Offerings in August and Early September
  4. Preparing for the First Six Weeks of School
  5. 2020-21 EWIS information Available
  6. School Nutrition Update
  7. Become a Youth Mental Health First Aider
  8. PD Provider Registry Application
  9. For Your Information: EEE Information

August 17, 2020

  1. Advisory on Compensatory Services
  2. Picture of the Week: Student Artwork at Malden’s Ferryway School
  3. English Learner Education Webinars
  4. Final Call for Instructional Materials Evaluation and Selection Network
  5. Webinar to Navigate SEL Recommendations and Resources
  6. Help Planning Hybrid and Remote Learning
  7. Remote Learning Partner Overviews for District Leaders
  8. Interpreting COVID-19 Metrics
  9. For Your Information: Webinar on how to support remote learning

August 10, 2020

  1. Fall Reopening Plan Deadline Extended to August 14
  2. Noteworthy Practices from the Preliminary Reopening Plans
  3. Deadline for Remote Learning Partner Interest Survey Extended
  4. Refining Hybrid and Remote Learning Models
  5. School Emergency Planning and COVID-19
  6. PD Offerings in August and Early September
  7. Requirement to Transport Commonwealth Charter School Students
  8. OSD Support for Districts
  9. Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching
  10. EWIS and Data Usage Sessions
  11. Updated Save the Date for the Civics Literacy Conference
  12. For Your Information: #MaskUpMA

August 3, 2020

  1. Additional Guidance and Recommendations for School Reopening
  2. Picture of the Week: Massachusetts History Teacher of the Year
  3. Partnership with LearnLaunch
  4. Principal Information Session on My Career and Academic Plan (MyCAP)
  5. Barr Foundation's Massachusetts Ready Fund
  6. Assessments of School Building Facilities, HVAC Systems, and More
  7. Additional CARES Act Funds to Benefit Education

July 27, 2020

  1. Additional Staff Training Days this Fall
  2. Guidance on Courses Requiring Additional Safety Considerations, Remote Learning, Transportation, and Facilities
  3. Picture of the Week: Uxbridge High School Graduation
  4. Preparing to Transition Young Children Back to School
  5. Food Assistance Resources to Share with Families
  6. Center for Instructional Support Program Catalog 2020-2021
  7. Data Collection for the 2020 School Health Profiles Surveys Resumes
  8. For Your Information:
    • 2020 Summer Nights Initiative
    • Keeping kids active this summer

July 20, 2020

  1. Coronavirus Relief Fund School Reopening Grant
  2. Protocols for Responding to COVID-19 Scenarios
  3. Picture of the Week: Planning for Re-opening at Monomoy Regional
  4. Two-Step Process and Online Form/Template for Fall Reopening Plans
  5. Updates on P-EBT Benefits
  6. Comments Sought on 21st CCLC Request for Flexibility
  7. Leveraging Student Teachers this Fall
  8. New Online Reports and Finance Data Updates
  9. Reminder about Directory Administration
  10. For Your Info:
    • Chromebooks for Kids
    • Relief for special education residential schools

July 13, 2020

  1. Additional Guidance on Fall Reopening Plans
  2. Picture of the Week: Summer School in Fall River
  3. Comprehensive Special Education Guidance for the 2020-21 School Year
  4. Bids Sought for Learning Management System
  5. Comment on Waiver Request Related to the MCAS Alternate Assessment
  6. DESE Resource Corner: Students with IEPs Ages 6-21 Edwin Report
  7. Autism Insurance Resource Center

July 6, 2020

  1. Board Recap
  2. Comprehensive Summer School Guidance
  3. $25m Grant for Remote Learning-Related Technology Needs
  4. State-Sponsored Health Safety Supply Ordering Process Open
  5. Help Measuring School Capacity for Social Distancing
  6. DPH Waiving Regulations Pertaining to Alcohol-based Hand Sanitizers
  7. USED's Rural Tech Project
  8. DESE Communication Survey

June 29, 2020

  1. Board to Meet
  2. Initial Fall School Reopening Guidance
  3. Early Childhood Coordinators Leadership Institute and Community of Practice
  4. Teacher & Principal Advisory Cabinet Application Deadline Extended
  5. Extended Waivers for School Meal Programs
  6. Immunization Requirements

June 22, 2020

  1. Summer and Vacation Learning Program Grant Posted
  2. Picture of the Week: The Class of 2020
  3. Deadline Extended to Submit FY21 CARES Act ESSER Applications
  4. New SOA Plan Deadline
  5. District Induction and Mentoring Survey Forms
  6. Reminder on Restraint Reporting
  7. Massachusetts Migrant Education Program

June 15, 2020

  1. Emergency License
  2. Picture of the Week: Graduations
  3. Webinars on Planning and Adjusting Instruction
  4. Summer/Vacation Learning Program Grant
  5. Reminder about Student Advisory Councils
  6. Early Grades Literacy Grant Available
  7. Acquisition Support for Safety Supplies
  8. Grant Opportunity to Support Summer Meals
  9. Determining Homelessness
  10. Updated RADAR and DART Reports, and a New RADAR Report
  11. For Your Info:
    • Elementary Principal of the Year
    • Learning Ally audiobooks
    • Condition of Education
    • Census-related activities for kids

June 8, 2020

  1. Students Sought for Team Building Exercise with Commissioner
  2. Guidance on Summer School, Purchasing Safety Supplies, and Special Education
  3. Pictures of the Week: Students Take Action
  4. Help with P-EBT Cards
  5. Reminder: Governor's Graduation Celebration
  6. Teacher and Principal Advisory Cabinet Applications due June 15
  7. Materials Evaluation and Selection Network
  8. CTE Partnership Planning Grants
  9. Retrieving Student Medications
  10. Distinguished Educators Sought
  11. For Your Info:
    • Rebuilding community
    • Examples of career technical education remote learning

June 1, 2020

  1. Preparing for Recreational Summer Programs
  2. Picture of the Week: Hopedale Junior Senior High School
  3. Comprehensive School Mental Health System Opportunity
  4. Webinar on Supporting the Whole Child Amid COVID-19
  5. Guidance on Behavioral and Mental Health Services During School Closures
  6. Educators Needed for MTEL Program
  7. Guidance on Retrieving Personal Belongings from School Buildings
  8. Information for 2020-21 Charter School Application Cycle
  9. CTE State Plan
  10. For Your Info: National Teacher of the Year

May 26, 2020

  1. Board Recap
  2. Pictures of the Week: Rowe Elementary
  3. Return to School Working Group
  4. Celebrating the Class of 2020
  5. Presidential Scholars
  6. Translated Letter to Families Available
  7. Accountability and Assistance Advisory Council to Meet
  8. Influence 100 Now Accepting District Applications
  9. Reminder on Restraint Reporting
  10. Seeking Educators to Apply for the CURATE Fellowship
  11. Tuition Rate for Virtual Schools
  12. For Your Info: Camp Kinda

May 18, 2020

  1. Workshops on Building Blocks for Equitable Remote Learning
  2. Remote Learning Survey Reminder
  3. Free Virtual Literacy Learning Series
  4. New Members Needed for State and Regional Student Advisory Councils
  5. New Deadline for SOA Plans
  6. Chapter 688 Referrals
  7. Preschool Remote Learning Guidance
  8. ST Math Access for Massachusetts Schools
  9. For Your Info:
    • Principals of the Year
    • Remote learning Twitter chat

May 11, 2020

  1. Webinars to Help Implement Remote Learning
  2. Pictures of the Week: Student Art from Chelsea
  3. Letter to Families
  4. High School Guidance
  5. Innovation Pathways Workshop for Prospective Applicants
  6. CARES ACT RFP Available
  7. Teacher and Principal Advisory Cabinet Applications Open
  8. ST Math Access for Massachusetts Schools
  9. Free Access to OPTIC Extended
  10. Massachusetts FAFSA Deadline Extended to July 1
  11. Establishing an Online Work Permit Process
  12. Guidance on Expiring Licenses
  13. Retrieving Needed Personal Items from Schools
  14. For Your Info:
    • Advanced Placement test information
    • Rennie Center's Back-to-School Blueprint
    • New Holyoke receiver named
    • School Counselor of the Year

May 4, 2020

  1. Board Recap
  2. Picture of the Week: School Lunch Heroes
  3. Teacher Appreciation Week
  4. School Nurse Day
  5. Free Online UDL Remote Learning Workshop Series
  6. Preschool through Grade 8 Principals Virtual Convening
  7. Innovation Pathways Designation and Planning Grant Opportunity
  8. Spread the Word about 2-1-1
  9. Health Screenings in Schools Suspended
  10. COVID-19 Updates from the Governor's Office
  11. For Your Info:
    • Easthampton High School wins national contest
    • More remote learning resources

April 27, 2020

  1. New Remote Learning Guidance
  2. Picture of the Week: Essex Tech Lambs
  3. Reminder: Board to Meet
  4. Deadline Extended for Grant to Support Students' Behavioral and Mental Health
  5. School Lunch Hero Day
  6. Personal Responsibility Education Program Webinars
  7. Multi-Tiered Systems of Support Academies Webinar
  8. School Year Requirements
  9. Child Abuse
  10. Free Tutoring Resource for Military Connected Students
  11. For Your Info:
    • Census materials
    • Celtics writing and art contest

April 21, 2020

  1. Schools to Remain Closed Through End of School Year
  2. Pictures of the Week: The Shield Team
  3. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  4. Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT)
  5. Special Education Tuition Guidance from OSD
  6. Ed Prep Reviewers Sought
  7. Extension to the Bilingual Education Endorsement Grandfather Clause
  8. Census Update
  9. U.S. Presidential Scholars Program Semifinalists
  10. For Your Info:
    • Virtual School Librarian
    • Free remote PD

April 13, 2020

  1. Legislation Enacted on MCAS, SOA Plans, and Regional School District Budgets
  2. Waiver for ESSA Grants
  3. Video Conferencing Safety
  4. Safe Schools Program for LGBTQ Students
  5. School Choice Reporting Requirement
  6. DESE Resource Corner: Special education resources
  7. For Your Info:
    • Census update
    • COVID-19, smoking, and vaping
    • STEM resources

April 6, 2020

  1. Board Meeting Recap
  2. Pictures of the Week: Teacher Parade
  3. Remote Learning Updates
  4. April Vacation
  5. General COVID-19 Updates
  6. Remote Learning for English Learners
  7. School Counseling During School Closures
  8. Help with Digital Access
  9. Supporting Students' SEL and Mental Health Needs During COVID-19
  10. Extension of Deadlines for Non-Resident Chapter 74 Admissions
  11. FY21 Commonwealth Charter Schools Pre-Enrollment Data Report
  12. For Your Info:
    • Census update
    • Secondary school video contest

March 30, 2020

  1. Board to Meet
  2. Picture of the Week: Map Academy
  3. USDA Reimbursements for All Districts
  4. Remote Learning Recommendations
  5. Serving Students with Disabilities During the COVID-19 School Closure
  6. Webinar on Supporting Students' SEL and Mental Health Needs During COVID-19
  7. Payments for Contracted Services
  8. Grants Available for School Meals During COVID-19
  9. MCAS
  10. Portal for PPE Donations and Medical Volunteers
  11. Deadlines Postponed for Creation of New Virtual Schools
  12. Family Engagement Needs Assessment

March 23, 2020

  1. COVID-19 Coronavirus Update
  2. Picture of the Week: Personal Protective Equipment Donations

March 16, 2020

  1. COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Update
  2. Modification to Open Meeting Law
  3. Early Learning Networking Canceled
  4. AAAC Meeting Canceled
  5. English Learner Dropout Prevention Convening Postponed
  6. Student Government Day Canceled
  7. DESE Resource Corner: Policy brief on special education data
  8. For Your Info:
    • Boston Public Schools district review and new support for improvement model
    • WebEx access
    • Burn awareness video winners

March 9, 2020

  1. COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
  2. Picture of the Week: Joint Committee on Ways and Means Hearing
  3. Census Webinar
  4. Comment on the Alternative Licensure Assessment Pilot by March 13
  5. Hate Crimes Prevention
  6. English Learner Dropout Prevention Convening
  7. Information Session on Grants for New 21st Century Community Learning Centers
  8. For Your Info: Building Safe Schools for All

March 2, 2020

  1. Coronavirus
  2. Picture of the Week: Worcester Arts Magnet School's MetroGnomes
  3. Assessment Audit Opportunity
  4. High School Voter Registration and Pre-Registration Grant
  5. Free Healthy Schools Program PD to Enhance School Physical Activity
  6. Grant Opportunity for School Safety and Security Infrastructure
  7. Comments Sought on Proposed Changes to Accountability System
  8. Apply to Be an Ed Prep Reviewer
  9. DESE Resource Corner: Mathematics Reference Guides
  10. For Your Info: High school start times

February 24, 2020

  1. VISTA Survey Reminder: Last chance to participate!
  2. Picture of the Week: Black History Month Event
  3. Early Learning Networking Opportunities
  4. Workshop Proposals Sought for Civics Literacy Conference
  5. Clarification: Data on In-Field and Out-of-Field Educators
  6. 2020 Future Teacher Signing Day
  7. High School Voter Registration and Pre-Registration Grant

February 18, 2020

  1. VISTA Survey Reminder
  2. Picture of the Week: Student Opportunity Act Q&A
  3. Student Opportunity Act Update
  4. Grant for Summer Programming
  5. For Your Info:
    • Arbor Day Poster Contest
    • Education First PK-12 SEL In Action Grant Opportunity

February 10, 2020

  1. Signal Success
  2. Picture of the Week: Johnson Elementary School in Natick
  3. VISTA Surveys
  4. March Early Learning Network Meetings
  5. Soliciting Public Comment on the Alternative Licensure Assessment Pilot
  6. Registration Open for Safe and Supportive Learning Environments Conference
  7. School Choice Reporting Requirement for the 2020-2021 School Year
  8. For Your Info: AP success

February 3, 2020

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Meeting
  2. Picture of the Week: Wakefield Memorial High School
  3. New Grant to Support Students' Behavioral and Mental Health and Wellness
  4. February is VISTA Month
  5. Professional Development Provider Registry Application
  6. RESPECTfully Awareness Campaign to Promote Healthy Relationships
  7. High School Voter Registration and Pre-Registration Grant
  8. School Water Infrastructure Grant
  9. Exchanging School Records with Puerto Rico
  10. Preventing Flu Transmission in Schools

January 27, 2020

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  2. Picture of the Week: Early College Students at the State of the Commonwealth
  3. Preliminary Funding Estimates
  4. Invitation to Student Engagement Webinar
  5. Seeking Providers to Implement the Performance Review Program for Initial Licensure
  6. Dropout Prevention Winter Convening
  7. Edwin 101
  8. Early Learning Book Discussion
  9. Case Studies of Districts Reallocating Resources to Support Priorities
  10. 2019 School and District Report Cards
  11. March Elementary Principals Network Meetings
  12. Application Period Open for Approval of "After Dark" Programs
  13. For Your Info: Summer meals program

January 21, 2020

  1. Educators Sought for MTEL Development
  2. Picture of the Week: Math Operations in Holyoke
  3. Innovation Pathways Grants
  4. For Your Info:
    • UN art contest
    • Statistics in Schools Ambassador Program
    • Middle School Exploration Grant
    • Accounting Program for Building the Profession

January 10, 2020

  1. Perkins V Opportunities for Public Comment and Implementation Sessions
  2. Picture of the Week: Beal Early Childhood Center in Shrewsbury
  3. Invitation to Student Engagement Webinar
  4. Increasing FAFSA Completion
  5. Registration for Student Government Day Still Open
  6. Performance Review Program for Initial Licensure
  7. Save the Date for the Civics Literacy Conference
  8. Hate Crimes Task Force Education Recommendations
  9. Publication Day to Change

January 3, 2020

  1. AAAC Meeting Notice and Call for Nominations
  2. Picture of the Week: Teacher of the Year at the Celtics
  3. Supporting Adult Social-Emotional Learning and Well-Being
  4. School-Based Medicaid Program Trainings

2019

December 20, 2019

  1. Expanded Call Center Hours
  2. Pictures of the Week: Gingerbread Houses at the State House
  3. Winter 2020 Perkins Implementation Sessions
  4. Board Meetings Canceled
  5. Happy Holidays!

December 13, 2019

  1. Board to Meet
  2. Picture of the Week: Cambridge Rindge and Latin School Black Student Union
  3. Kaleidoscope Collective for Learning Finalists
  4. Free Two-Day MTSS Planning Institute
  5. Seeking Arts Educators, Artists, and Art Experts
  6. New Skills for Youth Recap
  7. DESE Resource Corner: Digital literacy and computer science support
  8. For Your Info:
    • Limited Space Available for January DLCS district implementation planning workshops
    • STEM Teacher of the Year

December 6, 2019

  1. Perkins V Opportunities for Public Comment
  2. Picture of the Week: Milken Educator Award
  3. Edwin Office Hours
  4. School Immunization Surveys
  5. Youth Mental Health First Aid Certified Instructor Training
  6. DPH Survey on Mosquito-Borne Illnesses
  7. Survey on New Customer Service Call Center Hours
  8. Gifted and Talented Education Advisory Council
  9. DESE Resource Corner: Safe Schools Program for LGBTQ Students
  10. For Your Info:
    • Innovative Schools Learning Excursion
    • Selective Service

November 27, 2019

  1. Message from Commissioner Riley about the Student Opportunity Act
  2. Free Healthy Schools Program Professional Development Opportunities
  3. Financial Literacy Planning and Implementation Grant
  4. Civics Teaching and Learning Grant
  5. New Digital Literacy Now Grant Program
  6. Become a Massachusetts Literacy Champion
  7. DESE Resource Corner: Guidelines for Preschool and Kindergarten Learning Experiences
  8. For Your Info:
    • Profiles in Courage essay contest
    • STEM Teacher Leadership Network

November 22, 2019

  1. Board Recap
  2. Picture of the Week: Milestones Day School
  3. Student Opportunity Act
  4. Release of FAFSA Reports in Edwin
  5. Reminder on High-Quality Curriculum: A Foundation for Student Success
  6. New RADAR Tool and RADAR Webinars Available
  7. Massachusetts Partnership for Infants & Toddlers Family Survey
  8. Learning Opportunities for Arts Educators
  9. Assistance with E-rate and Network Upgrades
  10. For Your Info:
    • Massachusetts Fiscal Mapping Tool from EdRedesign
    • National History Day

November 15, 2019

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  2. Pictures of the Week: Sharing for Success Dissemination Fair
  3. Webinar for Elementary Principals on Trauma-Informed Practices
  4. Breakfast After the Bell Mandate
  5. Elementary Principals December Network Sessions
  6. High-Quality Curriculum: A Foundation for Student Success
  7. High School Computation Science Pathway Project Awarded
  8. Action Required for FY2021 Grant Applicants
  9. DESE Resource Corner: A Parent's Guide to Special Education
  10. For Your Info:
    • Poetry Out Loud for High Schools

November 8, 2019

  1. Additional Application Webinar for Kaleidoscope Collective for Learning
  2. Picture of the Week: Somerville High School and the Boston Chamber Music Society
  3. Digital Literacy and Computer Science Convening
  4. Gingerbread House Building Competition
  5. Service-Learning Connect Science Energy and Design Institutes Grant
  6. Registration Open for Student Government Day
  7. Cybersecurity Grants
  8. For Your Info:
    • The Big Read
    • Native American Heritage Month

November 1, 2019

  1. Application Webinar for Kaleidoscope Collective for Learning
  2. Picture of the Week: Innovation Pathways Programs
  3. Board Recap
  4. Charter School Amendments and Renewals
  5. Dropout Prevention and Re-Engagement Convening
  6. NAEP Results Released

October 25, 2019

  1. Board to Meet
  2. Pictures of the Week: STEM Week
  3. Civics Project Guidebook
  4. EEC Community Learning Sessions
  5. Reminder on U.S. Presidential Scholarship Nominations
  6. Green Ribbon School and District Opportunity
  7. School Counselors - Ensuring All Students are Future Ready
  8. Concurrent Enrollment Grant Opportunity

October 18, 2019

  1. Applicants Sought for Sontag Prize
  2. Pictures of the Week: Influence 100 and InSPIRED Fellows
  3. College and Career Advising and MyCAP
  4. Accountability and Assistance Advisory Council to Meet
  5. PAEMST Winners
  6. School Safety Grants
  7. DESE Resource Corner: The Great Fight for Disabilities Rights
  8. For Your Info: DLCS district implementation planning workshops

October 11, 2019

  1. Application Open for the Kaleidoscope Collective for Learning
  2. Picture of the Week: Symposium on Latinx Students
  3. Registration Open for "Sharing for Success" Dissemination Fair
  4. New Afterschool and Summer Grant Opportunity
  5. VOCAL Webinar
  6. Fall Healthy Schools Wellness Webinar Series
  7. Grants for Breakfast After the Bell
  8. Bilingual Education Endorsement
  9. For Your Info:
    • Puerto Rican diaspora summit
    • Nominations Open for Presidential Cybersecurity Education Award

October 4, 2019

  1. Nominations and Applications Open for Teacher of the Year
  2. Picture of the Week: Andover High School
  3. Requests for Waivers from Computer-Based Testing
  4. OPTIC Roadshow
  5. U.S. Presidential Scholarship Nominations Sought
  6. New Foster Care Transportation Reimbursement Program
  7. Tuition Rate for Virtual Schools
  8. Reminder about Survey on Professional Development
  9. DESE Resource Corner: E-learning about IDEA equitable services/proportionate share
  10. For Your Info:
    • NewSchools Venture Fund opportunity
    • Jane Ortner Education Award

September 27, 2019

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Meeting
  2. 2019 National Green Ribbon Honorees
  3. 2019 National Blue Ribbon Schools
  4. Civic Engagement Champion
  5. MCAS and Accountability Results
  6. FY20 Educator Diversification RFP
  7. Registration Last Call for Leading with Access and Equity Convening
  8. Edwin "Office Hours" Webinars
  9. For Your Info:
    • Teacher Collaborative Co-Labs

September 20, 2019

  1. Board to Meet
  2. Picture of the Week: STEM Day at Fenway
  3. MCAS and Accountability Results to Be Released
  4. SIMS Early Childhood Experiences Data Element
  5. Innovation Schools Annual Evaluation Now Overdue
  6. Space Still Available for EWIS and VOCAL Training Opportunities
  7. MTEL Vouchers
  8. Survey on Professional Development
  9. Changes in Reporting for Postsecondary Students in Chapter 74 Programs
  10. Charter School Applications
  11. Changes to ELA MCAS Test Design
  12. For Your Info:
    • Rightfully Yours art competition
    • Prudential Spirit of Community Awards

September 13, 2019

  1. Teacher Diversification RFP
  2. Pictures of the Week: DESE All Staff Meeting Presenters
  3. New Board Member
  4. Pilot of Elementary Social and Emotional Learning Resources
  5. MTEL Item Review Conference
  6. DLCS Ambassadors Available
  7. Free Access to Research Databases
  8. For Your Info:
    • STEM Week Challenge
    • Holiday Cards for Our Military Challenge
    • Name the Mars 2020 Rover

September 6, 2019

  1. Early College Statewide Convening
  2. Picture of the Week: Holyoke Pre-K and Kindergarten Celebration
  3. Chapter 74 "After Dark" Launch Event
  4. Early Learning Networking and PD
  5. College and Career Advising and MyCAP
  6. Symposium on Latinx Students
  7. Request for Waiver from Limit on Alternate Assessments
  8. Registration Open for Leading with Access and Equity Convening
  9. Model System for Educator Evaluation Updated
  10. For Your Info:
    • STEM Week Challenge
    • Rocket Science Co-Lab

August 30, 2019

  1. Memorandum on School Fire Drills
  2. Picture of the Week: Newton School in Greenfield
  3. Significant Disproportionality in Special Education
  4. Minimum Grade 10 ELA and Math Scaled Scores for Interim CD Requirement
  5. EWIS and VOCAL Opportunities
  6. Chapter 74 New Program Applications
  7. DESE Resource Corner: Back-to-school resources
  8. For Your Info:
    • STEM Week Challenge

August 23, 2019

  1. EWIS and VOCAL Data Release
  2. Picture of the Week: Canton Public Schools Prepares for STEM Week
  3. Openings on Parent and Community Education and Involvement Advisory Council
  4. Applications for the InSPIRED* Fellowship Are Now Open
  5. Center for Instructional Support Professional Development Opportunities
  6. For Your Info:
    • STEM Week Challenge
    • Mitigating lead in drinking water
    • Equine encephalitis (EEE) disease

August 16, 2019

  1. EWIS and VOCAL Data Release and Training Opportunity
  2. Picture of the Week: State Student Advisory Council
  3. Accountability and Assistance Advisory Council Nominations
  4. Openings on Digital Learning Advisory Council
  5. Anti-Hazing Data Collection Procedures
  6. Charter School Prospectuses
  7. For Your Info:
    • Project Lead The Way STEM Week Challenge
    • Mass IDEAS School Design Institute

August 9, 2019

  1. Arts Education Ambassadors
  2. Picture of the Week: Summer Institute for Literacy Leadership

August 2, 2019

  1. FY20 Budget Signed
  2. Picture of the Week: Deeper Learning at Warren Community Elementary
  3. Recording on MCAS Preliminary Data and Discrepancy Process

July 26, 2019

  1. Deeper Learning Reminder
  2. Picture of the Week: Thompson Island Outward Bound
  3. Superintendents' Checklist
  4. Preliminary 2019 MCAS Data
  5. Teams Needed to Test Drive a How Do We Know? Toolkit
  6. New Innovation Pathways Designations
  7. For Your Info:
    • Statistics in Schools Ambassadors
    • Summer Nights Initiative

July 19, 2019

  1. Note about July Local Education Aid Payments
  2. Picture of the Week: Summer Learning at Courageous Sailing
  3. District Reviewers Sought
  4. Professional Development Provider Registry Application
  5. Competitive FY20 Safe and Supportive Schools Grant

July 12, 2019

  1. Deeper Learning and the Kaleidoscope Collective for Learning Pilot Program
  2. Picture of the Week: Young Queens and Kings Scholar Program from Edison K-8 School in Boston
  3. Massachusetts PAEMST Finalists
  4. Early College Designation Opportunity
  5. Memo on Significant Disproportionality in Special Education
  6. Free Access to Electronic Databases
  7. For Your Info:
    • Teaching and Learning International Survey
    • Building a collective vision of graduates

June 28, 2019

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Recap
  2. Picture of the Week: Pathways Inc. Adult Education and Training
  3. New Policy for Additional Educator Licensure Hardship Waivers
  4. Plans for the MCAS ELA and Mathematics Retests
  5. Innovation Schools Annual Evaluation
  6. Alternative Structured Learning Day Programs
  7. For Your Info: Leadership Grant; Summer Internship

June 21, 2019

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  2. Picture of the Week: Educators Honored at State House
  3. Instructional Support Program Offerings
  4. 2019 MCAS Early Release Files and Discrepancy Reporting
  5. Special Education Leadership Institutes
  6. Release of Spring 2019 MCAS Test Questions
  7. Reminder about MCAS Computer-Based Testing Expectation for 2020
  8. Important Information about High School STE Tests
  9. Principals of the Year
  10. For Your Info:
    • Mass IDEAS School Design Institute

June 14, 2019

  1. Free Two-Day MTSS Leadership Institute
  2. Picture of the Week: Pride Month
  3. Problem Resolution System Goes Paperless
  4. Early Literacy Grants
  5. Surveys on BCBAs
  6. Courses on Social Emotional Learning and Approaches to Play and Learning
  7. Call for Presentations for Dissemination Fair
  8. Printing School and District Report Cards
  9. Early College Designations
  10. Influence 100 Reminder
  11. For Your Info:
    • Mass Learning Excursions

June 7, 2019

  1. Dual Language Program Training
  2. Picture of the Week: Schools of Recognition
  3. Reminder about Distinguished Teachers and Principals
  4. Influence 100 Reminder
  5. For Your Info:
    • Family engagement specialist wanted
    • Condition of Education 2019
    • Behavioral health system listening sessions

May 31, 2019

  1. Reminder on Restraint Reporting
  2. Picture of the Week: Bristol County Agricultural High School
  3. Edwin "Office Hours"
  4. Educator Survey on Family Engagement
  5. Influence 100 Pilot District Application Is Open
  6. Save the Date - Leading with Access and Equity Convening
  7. For Your Info: Excellence through Social Emotional Learning (exSEL) Network

May 24, 2019

  1. Board Meeting Recap
  2. Picture of the Week: Culinary Throwdown at the Healthy Kids, Healthy Programs Summit
  3. U.S. Green Ribbon Schools
  4. Accountability and Assistance Advisory Council to Meet
  5. Reminder: Comments Sought on Proposed Changes to Accountability System
  6. Dissemination Fair
  7. Drinking Water Guidance from MassDEP
  8. Civic Engagement Champions
  9. Influence 100 Pilot District Application Is Open
  10. For Your Info: RESPECTfully

May 17, 2019

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  2. 2020 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year
  3. 2019 Summer Food Service Program Application Available
  4. Digital Literacy and Computer Science Ambassadors
  5. Information on 2019-20 Charter School Application Cycle
  6. Influence 100 Pilot District Application Is Open
  7. Looking Forward
  8. For Your Info: Civic engagement awards program for middle school teachers

May 10, 2019

  1. Future Teacher Signing Days
  2. Deadline to Apply for MCAS Standard-Setting Panels Extended
  3. Comprehensive School Physical Activity Program Training
  4. Opportunity to Streamline Technology Management, Evaluation, and Procurement
  5. Puerto Rican Diplomas
  6. Webinar on Water Quality Funding Sources
  7. District Induction and Mentoring Survey Forms Coming
  8. U.S. Presidential Scholars
  9. Green Ribbon Schools Recognized
  10. For Your Info:
    • History and social science content support specialist wanted
    • Statistics in Schools

May 3, 2019

  1. Free Two-Day MTSS Leadership Institute
  2. Evaluating Science Materials Network Opportunity
  3. Spring Event for Elementary Principals
  4. Influence 100 Pilot District Grant Coming
  5. License Renewal Reminder
  6. For Your Info: Teacher Appreciation Week

April 26, 2019

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Meeting
  2. Picture of the Week: Chinese Educators Visit Technical Schools
  3. Dropout Prevention and Re-Engagement Spring Convening
  4. Gifted Education Meetings
  5. RADAR Benchmarking Data
  6. Mental Health Consortium Meetings in Western Mass.
  7. Registration Open for Civics and Social Science Events
  8. Help Us Identify Distinguished Educators
  9. Financial Education Survey

April 19, 2019

  1. Board to Meet
  2. Picture of the Week: Brockton High School
  3. New Innovation Pathways
  4. For Your Info:
    • Family engagement webinar
    • Guide to school climate resources

April 12, 2019

  1. Multi-Tiered Systems of Support Academies Webinar
  2. Picture of the Week: Student Government Day
  3. Significant Disproportionality Webinars
  4. Members Sought for Parent and Community Education and Involvement Advisory Council
  5. Spring Event for Elementary Principals
  6. Comments Sought on Proposed Changes to Accountability System
  7. Reminder about School Choice Reporting Requirement
  8. DESE Resource Corner: Resources to support standards-aligned teaching and learning
  9. For Your Info:
    • Splash at Harvard
    • STEM Week planning

April 5, 2019

  1. Message from Commissioner Riley about the 10th Grade English Language Arts MCAS
  2. Picture of the Week: Recruiting Teachers
  3. Teacher of the Year Finalists and Semifinalists
  4. Innovation Pathways Designation and Application Process for SY2019-2020
  5. DESE's Student Councils Seek New Members for 2019-2020
  6. Resources for Adults Who Need to Improve Their Literacy Skills or Learn English
  7. Implementing Your District Plan and Aligning Resources (Planning for Success)
  8. Spring Convening of the Dropout Prevention and Reengagement Work Group
  9. Joint Letter on Vaping, Marijuana, and Opioid Risks
  10. VISTA 2019: Thank you!
  11. For Your Info: Webinar on evidence-based interventions

March 29, 2019

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education
  2. Picture of the Week: Family Institute for Student Success Pilot
  3. Last Chance for VISTA
  4. Future Teacher Signing Days
  5. Edwin "Office Hours" Webinars
  6. Vacancies on State Special Education Advisory Council
  7. State Seal of Biliteracy Program
  8. DESE Resource Corner: Updated staff and student feedback surveys available
  9. For Your Info:
    • First NESSC Massachusetts State Champion
    • Conference on vaping and adolescents

March 22, 2019

  1. Kairos: Mapping Our Way Forward
  2. Picture of the Week: Scenes from Kairos
  3. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  4. Additional Funding to Support Hurricane Evacuees from Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands
  5. MCAS Resources
  6. Career and Technical Education Partnership Grants
  7. VISTA 2019: Please participate
  8. For Your Info:
    • Governor files Innovation Zone legislation
    • Free one-day dental clinic for kids

March 15, 2019

  1. Save the Dates for Civics and Social Science Events
  2. Picture of the Week: Massachusetts Girls in Trades Conference & Career Fair
  3. Elementary Principals Network Meetings
  4. Accountability and Assistance Advisory Council to Meet
  5. Extension of VISTA 2019 Survey
  6. MCAS Reminders
  7. School Safety and Security Grant Opportunity
  8. Massachusetts 21st Century Community Learning Centers Technical Assistance
  9. Spring Early Learning Network Meetings
  10. Kairos Conference
  11. For Your Info:
    • Songwriting Challenge
    • Summer accounting programs for high school students
    • Survey of volunteer sector

March 8, 2019

  1. Math Pathways Regional Meetings
  2. Picture of the Week: Hildreth Elementary School in Harvard
  3. VISTA 2019 Survey Reminder
  4. Kairos Conference
  5. Webinar on Renewing a Professional License
  6. Registration Open for Science and Math Institute

March 1, 2019

  1. Safe and Supportive Schools Statewide Conference
  2. Picture of the Week: Holyoke STEM Academy
  3. Additional Planning for Success Workshop Dates and Locations
  4. Elementary Principals Network Meetings
  5. Spring Early Learning Network Meetings
  6. Student Government Day
  7. Survey on Draft Arts Curriculum Framework
  8. DESE Resource Corner: The How Do We Know Initiative

February 15, 2019

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Meeting
  2. Picture of the Week: Charlton Street Elementary School in Southbridge
  3. MCAS Updates
  4. Grant to Increase Student Access to Behavioral and Mental Health Services
  5. Potential State Support for Fiber Upgrades
  6. Identifying Strong Digital Tools
  7. New Grant for Summer Programming
  8. VISTA 2019 Survey Reminder
  9. For Your Info: Advanced Placement success

February 8, 2019

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  2. Picture of the Week
  3. 2019 Massachusetts Green Ribbon Schools Announced
  4. 2018 School and District Report Cards
  5. Teacher Diversification Pilot Program
  6. Prevention of Substance Use/Misuse and Promotion of Social and Emotional Learning
  7. Digital Learning Day Countdown
  8. Building Inclusive Communities in Early Childhood
  9. Public Comment Open on Revised Guidelines for Reading Specialist License
  10. VISTA 2019 Survey Reminder

February 1, 2019

  1. School Choice Reporting Requirement for the 2019-2020 School Year
  2. Picture of the Week: UP Academy Holland
  3. DESE Resource Corner: Black History Month
  4. For Your Info:
    • School Counseling Week
    • Summer Food Service Program
    • Barriers to parent involvement

January 25, 2019

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Meeting
  2. Picture of the Week: Pappas Rehabilitation Hospital for Children
  3. Governor's Budget Proposal
  4. Webinars on Benchmarks for English Learners
  5. VISTA 2019 Survey Window is Open
  6. Planning for Success
  7. Massachusetts WIC Program Remains Open
  8. For Your Info: Quality Counts

January 18, 2019

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Meetings
  2. Picture of the Week: InSPIRED Fellows
  3. Help Keep Teachers Passionate about Teaching
  4. Deadline Extended for Personalized Learning Survey for Principals
  5. Career and Technical Education Webinars
  6. Skills Capital Grants
  7. Grants for Financial Education Fairs

January 11, 2019

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  2. Picture of the Week: Teachers' Varied Roles
  3. School/Community Based Targeted Intervention Services Grant
  4. Program Quality Workgroup
  5. Elementary Principals Network Meetings
  6. Integrating Elementary Computational Thinking in Science and Mathematics Curricula
  7. Summer Planning Grants for High-Quality Instruction
  8. Update on Federal Funding for Nutrition Programs
  9. For Your Info:
    • Supporting a diverse and learner-ready workforce
    • Used computers available

January 4, 2019

  1. Student Discipline
  2. Picture of the Week: Bristol Community College's Step Up to College Transition Program
  3. Green Ribbon Schools Application Deadline
  4. E-rate Funding Year 2019 Application Window Opens January 16
  5. Planning for Success Training Opportunities
  6. For Your Info: League of Innovative Schools — Massachusetts Network

2018

December 21, 2018

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Meeting
  2. Picture of the Week: Influence 100 Design Team
  3. Changes to Placement Process for Higher Education Developmental Courses
  4. Timeline for Implementing the Civics Law and the History and Social Science Framework
  5. Elementary Principals Network Meetings
  6. Large Number of Licensure Renewals Expected
  7. For Your Info: Earthwatch Institute Teacher Fellowships

December 14, 2018

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  2. Picture of the Week: Northampton High School
  3. Dyslexia Web Page
  4. Registration for January MCAS Training Sessions Now Available
  5. Views of Instruction, State Standards, Teaching, and Assessment (VISTA) Survey
  6. Prevention of Substance Use/Misuse and Promotion of Social and Emotional Learning
  7. For Your Info:
    • Healthy Schools, Healthy People
    • Massachusetts History Day Competition

December 7, 2018

  1. Comprehensive School Health Service Affiliated Program
  2. Picture of the Week: Paton Elementary School, Shrewsbury
  3. Safe Routes to School Grants Available
  4. For Your Info:
    • Webinar on evidence-based decision making
    • Poetry Out Loud

November 30, 2018

  1. Board Recap and Commenting on CD Regulations on High School Science
  2. Picture of the Week: Pioneer Charter School of Science II
  3. Accountability and Assistance Advisory Council Meeting and Call for Nominations
  4. InSPIRED Fellowship Opportunity
  5. Grant Opportunity: Empowering Educators through Autonomy Planning
  6. Personalized Learning Survey for Principals
  7. Nominations Open for Massachusetts Teacher of the Year
  8. Planning for Success Training Opportunities
  9. For Your Info: Webinar on SEL and family and community partnerships

November 16, 2018

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  2. Picture of the Week: New Bedford
  3. Reminder on Creating New English Learner Education Programs and Available Grants
  4. Edwin is Getting a New Look!
  5. Attendance and Suspension Monitoring Report
  6. Reminder on Alternative Structured Learning Day Programs
  7. For Your Info:
    • Doing High School Differently
    • Grants to police departments will also benefit schools
    • The Big Read

November 9, 2018

  1. Webinars on LOOK Act Opportunities
  2. Picture of the Week: Phoenix Charter School Lawrence
  3. Rethinking Discipline Convening
  4. Winter Early Learning Network Meetings
  5. Nominations Open for Teacher Recognition Programs
  6. Upcoming Deadlines: FY18 Charter School End of Year Financial Report
  7. For Your Info:
    • Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools

November 2, 2018

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Meeting Recap
  2. Upcoming Technology Webinar
  3. Plan Now for Annual Student Government Day in April
  4. Updated RADAR Reports, Webinars, and Online Tutorial
  5. Save the Date for Convening on Homeless and Hungry Students
  6. Public Hearings Scheduled on Proposed Charter Schools
  7. Elementary Principals Professional Development Series
  8. For Your Info:
    • SouthCoast Education Summit on SEL
    • GEAR UP continues
    • Communication survey

October 26, 2018

  1. Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  2. Picture of the Week: Massachusetts STEM Week
  3. Math Alignment Summit
  4. Panelists Sought for Health Curriculum Framework Review
  5. Deadline Extended for Systemic Student Support (S3) Academy
  6. School Health Services Grant
  7. DESE Resource Corner: Policy brief on curricular materials
  8. For Your Info:
    • The New Look of Nicotine Addiction
    • Governor signs supplemental budget
    • Kraemer Intergenerational Story Contest
    • Mass IDEAS Planning Grant Request for Learning
    • Latino Advisory Commission

October 19, 2018

  1. Librarian Surprised with Milken Educator Award
  2. Upcoming Technology Webinar
  3. EPA Webinars on Drinking Water Guidance
  4. Charter School Amendments/Renewals
  5. History and Social Science Instructional Planning and Implementation Grant
  6. Volunteers Sought for Licensure Panel Review
  7. U.S. Presidential Scholarship Nominations Sought
  8. For Your Info:
    • Training opportunity on mental health screening
    • Reading featured in USED blog

October 12, 2018

  1. Update on Alternative Structured Learning Day Programs
  2. Picture of the Week: Latino Community Forums
  3. Waiver Requests for Computer-Based MCAS Testing Due
  4. Grant Opportunity for CVTE Programs
  5. Two Groups Invited to Submit Final Applications for New Charter Schools
  6. Charter School Expansion Requests
  7. For Your Info: Two schools recognized for innovation

October 5, 2018

  1. National Blue Ribbon Schools
  2. Picture of the Week: Aviation Maintenance Technology at Westfield Technical Academy
  3. Additional Translations of Press Release on MCAS and Accountability Results
  4. Accountability and Assistance Advisory Council to Meet
  5. Systemic Student Support (S3) Academy
  6. U.S. Senate Youth Scholarship
  7. DESE Resource Corner: Student Assessment Updates
  8. For Your Info:
    • World War I Centennial Eighth Grade Art Competition
    • Early college visit
    • Prudential Spirit of Community Awards

September 28, 2018

  1. MCAS and Accountability Results
  2. Picture of the Week: Holyoke High School Early College Programs
  3. October is Dyslexia Awareness Month
  4. Training Sessions on the Spring 2019 MCAS Grade 10 Next-Generation Tests
  5. Rethinking Discipline Initiative Convening
  6. U.S. Presidential Scholarship Nominations Sought
  7. STEM Week
  8. Public Comment Open for Proposed Changes to Hearing Rules for Special Education Appeals
  9. Green Ribbon Schools Application Process Open

September 21, 2018

  • Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Meeting
  • Picture of the Week: Oak Middle School, Shrewsbury
  • Embargoed Release of Assessment and Accountability Data
  • Hurricane Recovery Assistance for Homeless Students
  • Prevention of Substance Misuse and Promotion of Social and Emotional Learning
  • Registration Open for Building Inclusive Communities Conference
  • For Your Info:
    • Mass IDEAS Planning Grant Request for Learning

September 14, 2018

  • Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  • Picture of the Week: DESE All Staff Meeting
  • Courses on Social Emotional Learning and Approaches to Play and Learning
  • Registration Open for Leading with Access and Equity Conference
  • Save the Date for Building Inclusive Communities in Early Childhood Event
  • DESE Resource Corner: Resources to support standards-aligned teaching and learning
  • For Your Info:
    • Comment on NAEP achievement levels

September 7, 2018

  • Reminder about Privacy of Employee Information
  • Picture of the Week: Early College
  • MassHealth School-Based Medicaid Program Expansion Update
  • Chap. 74 New Program Application Process Open
  • Model MOU for School Resource Officers
  • ESE Resource Corner: Massachusetts educator licensure video series
  • For Your Info:
    • Back to school facts
    • September 11 volunteer opportunities
    • Constitution Day
    • Every Kid in a Park

August 31, 2018

  • Early Warning Indicator System Reports Live in Edwin
  • Picture of the Week: Wire Village Elementary School in Spencer
  • Digital Connections Initiative
  • Redesigning School and District Report Cards
  • Home and Hospital Form
  • Request for Waiver from Limit on Alternate Assessments

August 24, 2018

  • Spots Available for PBIS and Tiered Literacy Academies
  • Picture of the Week: School Safety Roundtable
  • Regional Meetings to Inform a Family Engagement Framework
  • Competitive FY19 Safe and Supportive Schools Grant
  • Public Comment Open on Draft Guidelines for Use of English Proficiency Benchmarks
  • Opportunity for Educators to Serve on MCAS Committees
  • ESE Resource Corner: Research update

August 17, 2018

  • Commissioner's Back-to-School Resources
  • Picture of the Week: METCO Visit
  • Preliminary 2018 MCAS Data
  • New Subject Matter Knowledge Guidelines
  • DESE Ombudsperson for Private School Students with Disabilities
  • 2018-2019 Online Restraint Data Collection Tool is Now Open
  • Early Warning Indicator System (EWIS) Reports coming to Edwin
  • The Anti-Hazing Data Collection

August 10, 2018

  • Early Grades Literacy Grant Program
  • Picture of the Week: Elm Park Community School
  • Charter School Prospectuses and Expansion Requests
  • Updated Model Rubrics for Classroom Teachers and Principals
  • Early College Programs
  • For Your Info:
    • Clean energy grants
    • Mass IDEAS School Design Institute
    • Fran Pratt Award

August 3, 2018

  • Introduction to RADAR (Resource Allocation and District Action Reports)
  • Picture of the Week: Summer Food Service Program in Webster
  • Medical Emergency Response Plan Reminder
  • ESE Resource Corner: Research summaries, literature reviews, and policy briefs

July 27, 2018

  • Superintendents' Checklist: Updated Version Posted
  • Picture of the Week: Civics Education Institute
  • SEI Endorsement: New requirements for CVT Educators
  • Innovation Pathways Designation: Upcoming Information Sessions
  • Instructional Support Networks: Registration Open
  • Final FY19 State Budget

July 20, 2018

  • New Equity Roadmap Resources
  • Picture of the Week: House METCO Caucus
  • Digital Connections Partnership Schools Grants Awarded
  • Give Feedback on Proposed Refinements to Educator Evaluation Model Rubrics

July 13, 2018

  • Baker-Polito Administration Proposes Education and School Safety Package
  • Picture of the Week: SkillsUSA State Officers Team
  • Advisory on Janus Decision
  • Early Warning Indicator System Release Update
  • McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Grants
  • Hate Crime Listening Session

July 6, 2018

  • Second Installment of Hurricane Aid Distributed
  • Picture of the Week: Boston Renaissance Charter Public School
  • Upcoming Deadline for Homeless and Foster Care Student Data Collection
  • Two Online Courses for Early Childhood Educators

June 29, 2018

  • Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching
  • Picture of the Week: PAEMST Winners
  • Board Meeting Recap
  • Summer Food Service Program
  • AEDs and Updated Medical Emergency Response Plans
  • MCAS Updates
  • For Your Info:
    • Excellence through Social Emotional Learning (exSEL) Network
    • Commissioner Mitchell D. Chester honored

June 22, 2018

  • Teachers Honored
  • Picture of the Week: Massachusetts History Teacher of the Year
  • Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  • New Path Toward Licensure
  • New Process for Special Education Licensure Waivers
  • College and Carer Advising Professional Development Series
  • Deadline Approaching for Feedback on Subject Matter Knowledge Guidelines
  • Openings on Racial Imbalance Advisory Council
  • E-Cigarettes and Vaping Devices
  • DPH Survey to Inform Comprehensive School Health Services Programs
  • For Your Info:
    • Skills Capital Grants

June 15, 2018

  • Early Grades Literacy Grants
  • Picture of the Week: Shrewsbury High School
  • RADAR and FY18 End of Year Report Summer Workshops
  • Teachers Sought for CURATE Fellowship
  • Early Warning Indicator System (EWIS) Release Update
  • Instructional Support Networks
  • Private School Students with Disabilities
  • For Your Info:
    • Personalized learning summit
    • NGLC Mass. learning excursions

June 8, 2018

  • Curriculum Resources
  • Picture of the Week: Student Board Member
  • Federal Grant Programs Website
  • Change to Early Childhood Special Education Grant
  • Principal and Teacher Advisory Cabinets Open for Applications through June 29
  • Reading Specialist Subject Matter Knowledge Standards
  • Save the Date for Symposium on Chronic Absenteeism
  • Reminder on Spring 2018 Grades 3–8 Computer-Based MCAS Preliminary Embargoed Data Files
  • For Your Info:
    • Free Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles training available
    • Project Here grant opportunity extended

June 1, 2018

  • Updates on Social and Emotional Learning
  • Picture of the Week: Goddard School of Science and Technology in Worcester
  • Innovation Pathway Designations and Grants Announced

May 25, 2018

  • Board Meeting Recap
  • Picture of the Week: Teacher Advisory Cabinet
  • Supplemental Budget
  • Professional Development Opportunities about Safe and Supportive Learning Environments
  • Online MCAS Questionnaire for Schools on Computer-Based Testing
  • 21st Century Community Learning Centers Additional Learning Time Grant Posted
  • Middle Grades Math Virtual Book Study
  • Information on 2018-19 Charter School Application Cycle
  • For Your Info:
    • MASS urging students to register to vote
    • Principals' role in inclusive schools
    • Blue Ribbon School video

May 18, 2018

  • Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  • Picture of the Week: Declaration Day at Springfield Renaissance School
  • Green Ribbon Schools
  • Uploading Licensure Documents
  • Expanded Licensure Call Center Hours
  • Multi-Tiered Systems of Support Academies
  • Middle Grades Math Institute
  • Subject Matter Knowledge Guidelines Update
  • ESSA Foster Care Provisions
  • Early College Designations
  • For Your Info:
    • STEM Week
    • Summer Stride

May 11, 2018

  • Massachusetts Teacher of the Year
  • Additional Funding to Support Displaced Students
  • Board to Hold Special Meeting
  • Family Survey on IEP Development Process
  • District Induction and Mentoring Report Forms Coming Next Week
  • School Security Assessment App
  • Leading the Nation Week
  • For Your Info:
    • Presidential Scholars announced
    • Mass IDEAS School Model Design Studio

May 4, 2018

  • Statewide System of Support Update
  • Picture of the Week: Susan B. Anthony Middle School in Revere
  • Accountability and Assistance Advisory Council to Meet
  • Elementary Principals Network Meetings
  • No Change to Hiring Requirement for Paraprofessionals
  • DESE Resource Corner: Standards-based learning videos
  • For Your Info:
    • Harvard Case Method Project
    • Suicide response resource for schools
    • Project Here grant opportunity
    • "No First Time" Day
    • U.S. Presidential Scholars Program semifinalists announced

April 27, 2018

  • Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Meeting
  • Updated Educator Equity and Evaluation Data Posted
  • New for 2018: Early Reporting of Preliminary Spring MCAS Results
  • Promote Prevent Commission Report Released
  • Survey on IEP Development Process
  • Public Comment Open on Proposed Changes to Accountability and Assistance Regulations
  • Federal Literacy Grant Opportunity for High-Need Districts
  • Links to Leading the Nation Videos
  • For Your Info:
    • Massachusetts egg at White House Easter Egg Roll
    • Coalition of Schools Educating Boys of Color Conference

April 20, 2018

  • Additional Funding to Support Hurricane Evacuees from Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands
  • Picture of the Week: Student Government Day
  • Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  • Public Comment Open on Proposed Amendments Related to LOOK Act
  • Reminder on Restraint Reporting
  • DESE Resource Corner: Reports Library
  • For Your Info:
    • Strategic plan for the juvenile justice system
    • Lesson plans on intergenerational engagement

April 13, 2018

  • Massachusetts NAEP Scores Lead the Nation (Again!)
  • Picture of the Week: Tenacity Challenge
  • Professional Development Opportunities on Safe and Supportive Learning Environments
  • April Is the Month of the Military Child
  • Family Engagement External Stakeholders Regional Meetings
  • Spring Early Learning Regional Network Meetings
  • Elementary Principals Network Meetings
  • Computer Science Training Grant
  • Registration Open for July 24–26 Civic Education Institute
  • For Your Info: Message from the Registry of Motor Vehicles

April 6, 2018

  • Commissioner Riley Sworn in at Leading the Nation Celebration
  • Picture of the Week: Swearing In Ceremony
  • Supporting Displaced Students from Puerto Rico
  • DESE's Student Councils Seek New Members for 2018-2019
  • 2018 Massachusetts Green Ribbon Schools Announced
  • Advisory on Emergency Planning and Door Locking
  • New Advisory on Augmentative and Alternative Communication for Special Educators
  • Dropout Prevention and Re-Engagement Gathering
  • School Choice Reminder
  • MCAS Testing Schedule for 2018-2019 Released
  • For Your Info:
    • Two Massachusetts schools recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Education

March 30, 2018

  • A Message from the Acting Commissioner
  • Picture of the Week: Old Sturbridge Village Academy Charter Public School
  • Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Meeting
  • Nominate teachers by Sunday for PAEMST
  • FY17 Preliminary Finance Data Available
  • Course on Pre-K and K Standards for SEL and Approaches to Play and Learning
  • DESE Resource Corner: Schools' sample materials for coordinating MCAS test administration
  • For Your Info:
    • Social and emotional learning grant opportunity

March 23, 2018

  • Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to Meet
  • Graduation Requirements for Students from Puerto Rico
  • Picture of the Week: LEAP Convening
  • Public Comment on History and Social Science Framework Ends Soon
  • Graduation and Dropout Rate Events
  • 2018 VOCAL School Climate Survey
  • Diverse and Learner-Ready Teachers Initiative
  • DESE Resource Corner: "How Do We Know?" Initiative
  • For Your Info:
    • We the People Middle School Showcase
    • WIDA seeks input on framework
    • Youth Preparedness Council
    • Recent recognitions

March 16, 2018

  • Math and STE Ambassadors
  • Picture of the Week: National School Breakfast Week in Lowell
  • Snow Again!
  • Preparing for MCAS Administration
  • Save the Date for July 24–26 Civic Education Institute
  • VISTA: Last Chance!
  • DESE Resource Corner: Planning for Success

March 9, 2018

  • Massachusetts School Mental Health Consortium
  • Picture of the Week: Commissioner Chester Honored by CCSSO
  • Webinar on Proportionate Share for Special Education Directors
  • Professional Development on Safe and Supportive Learning Environments
  • Annual Arts Conference on April 2
  • 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grants Information Session
  • Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
  • Last Chance for Massachusetts Green Ribbon Schools Competition
  • Hasta La VISTA
  • For Your Info:
    • Resources on student walkouts
    • Integration of computational thinking and elementary math/science

March 2, 2018

  • Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Meeting
  • School Safety and Student Activism in the Wake of the Parkland Shooting
  • Picture of the Week: Phoenix Academy Public Charter High School, Lawrence
  • Good News on Graduation and Dropout Rates
  • Accountability and Assistance Advisory Council to Meet
  • VISTA Survey Still Open
  • WIDA Early Years Modules
  • For Your Info:
    • DESE seeking a director of literacy and humanities

Last Updated: January 25, 2021

Jeffrey C. Riley
Jeffrey C. Riley
Commissioner of Elementary
and Secondary Education
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