Updates for 2023–24

TestNav Requirements for 2023–24 (6/6/2023)

Pearson, the testing subcontractor, has posted the TestNav system requirements for 2023–24 computer-based testing. These updated requirements for the next school year are in alignment with the TestNav System Requirement Policy, which brings TestNav system requirements in line with manufacturer-supported operating systems (OSs) and devices. Please see this bulletin for details.

Updates to TestNav and PearsonAccess Next 2023–24

Spring 2024 MCAS Grade 8 Civics Field Test

In spring 2024, DESE will conduct a required MCAS Grade 8 Civics Field Test across all schools enrolling grade 8 students. The MCAS Grade 8 Civics assessment allows students to use their civics content knowledge and skills to explain and describe civics concepts, support claims with evidence, and analyze sources and graphics. It is made up of two components: one state-level performance task and an end-of-course (EOC) test. The administration window for the assessment, including the state-level performance task and the EOC test, will be April 29–June 7, 2024.

See the September 1, 2023 Special Edition Update and the Civics webpage for further information. Contact mcas@mass.gov with questions.

Spring 2024 MCAS STE Expanded Pilot for Grades 5 and 8

The new MCAS STE tests for grades 5 and 8 are intended to focus more on depth than breadth, to be more engaging for students, and to emphasize the "doing of science." This school year, DESE is expanding the pilot by adding a representative set of districts and schools, for a total of approximately 12,000 pilot students in each of grades 5 and 8. Next year, in 2024–25, DESE anticipates running a statewide field test, and in 2026 it is expected that all grade 5 and 8 students will be tested using the new format.

Please refer to this webpage and the September 1, 2023 Special Edition Update for further information and a list of participating schools. Contact iada_DESE@mass.gov with questions.

Bilingual Word-to-Word Dictionary E-Book Version Permitted for 2024 MCAS Tests

DESE is providing new guidance on electronic dictionaries for use during MCAS testing in 2024. Schools that currently use e-book versions as described below in regular instruction and classroom assessments may use them during MCAS testing beginning in 2024. Note that smartphones, including electronic dictionaries on smartphones, continue to be prohibited.

• Bilingual Word-to-Word Dictionaries and Glossaries Authorized for Use by English Learners on the 2024 MCAS Tests

MCAS Pre-Administration Guide

This resource provides instructions for the tasks that schools need to complete prior to MCAS test administration. The guide includes tasks for principals/test coordinators as well as staff new to these roles, and technology coordinators.

Schedule a Call with Technology Support Specialists

Technology coordinators are able to schedule one-on-one support from Pearson's support specialists (i.e., Field Services Engineering). They may use this website to schedule a 15-, 30-, or 60-minute phone meeting. New for 2023–24: This service will now be available year-round. These "office hours" supplement the support provided by the MCAS Service Center (see contact information in the footer) and should only be used prior to test administration. During test administration, schools should contact the MCAS Service Center for real-time support. Please share this information with your technology coordinators and staff.

Updated Science and Technology/Engineering (STE) Instructional Guidelines

The STE Instructional Guidelines have been updated for Grades 3–5 , Grades 6–8 , High School Biology , and High School Introductory Physics . These documents include guidance for instruction and assessment of the standards in the Massachusetts STE Curriculum Framework . They are aligned with assessment expectations for the STE MCAS tests but do not include all the standards that will be assessed. The instructional guidelines should not be used as the sole curriculum guide for these classes.

Updated MCAS Competency Determination (CD) Standard for Students in the Class of 2026 and Beyond

In August 2022, the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education voted to establish new Competency Determination (CD) standards for students in the class of 2026 (current grade 10 students) and beyond. Please note that CD requirements are determined by a student's original graduating class, which is assigned when they first enter a Massachusetts high school (grade 9 for most students) and, once assigned, does not change. Additional information about graduation requirements is available.

Last Updated: February 7, 2024