The Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) was initiated by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education in 1998 as part of our statewide education reform initiative for educators seeking PreK to grade 12 academic licenses. The MTEL includes a test of communication and literacy skills as well as tests of subject matter knowledge. The tests are designed to help ensure that Massachusetts educators can communicate adequately with students, parents/guardians, and other educators and that they are knowledgeable in the subject matter of the license(s) sought. MTEL includes tests for candidates seeking vocational technical and adult basic education licenses.
The Department is currently operating a regulatory pilot of alternative assessments to the MTEL. Learn more about the approved alternative assessments!
We are currently seeking public comment on the draft Culturally and Linguistically Sustaining Communication and Literacy Skills Framework that will eventually guide the redevelopment of the Communication and Literacy Skills MTEL test.
Share your perspective by September 30th!
We would love to hear from educator preparation leaders and faculty, PK–12 administrators and classroom teachers, PK–12 professional support personnel, recent preparation program completers and candidates, parents, students, and others with recent, nuanced, and varied experiences with educators.
Input will directly inform final revisions to the Framework and ultimately impact all new licensed educators in Massachusetts.
Please see the draft Framework below and access the survey here: Public Comment Culturally and Linguistically Sustaining Communication and Literacy Skills Framework.
The Culturally and Linguistically Sustaining Communication and Literacy Skills (CLS2) Framework — Draft
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Last Updated: February 14, 2025
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