October 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians of Students in the Class of 2023:
Enclosed are your child's results from the spring 2021 10th grade MCAS tests. The results are important, because students in the class of 2023 must meet certain requirements to be eligible to receive a high school diploma. I hope this letter will help clarify the graduation requirements for this class.
In English language arts and mathematics, there are three possible results for your child's test. Your child may have:
For students who have not passed a test in either English language arts or mathematics, the MCAS Performance Appeals Process provides another way for students to demonstrate that they possess the knowledge and skills required to meet or exceed the state's competency determination (CD) standard. Additional information, including eligibility requirements, is available at MCAS Performance Appeals, or you can contact the high school principal or guidance office.
Your child's MCAS scores may also earn them a tuition credit to a Massachusetts public college or university. Students who qualify for the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship will be notified automatically during their senior year. Students who are eligible for the Stanley C. Koplik Certificate of Mastery must apply during their senior year.
In response to the cancellation of MCAS testing in spring 2020 due to the COVID-19 emergency, the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education temporarily modified the CD requirement in STE for students in the classes of 2020-2023. Under this change, the CD in STE will be awarded to students in the class of 2023, in their senior year, upon the school district's certification that credit was earned for a relevant course in biology, chemistry, introductory physics, or technology/engineering during their high school career.
If you have questions about graduation requirements, please contact your school guidance counselor or principal or visit Graduation Requirements for more information.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey C. Riley Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education
Last Updated: October 7, 2021
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education 75 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA 02148-4906
Voice: (781) 338-3000 TTY: (800) 439-2370
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