MCAS Ballot Question: A Guide for Voters

This election season, Massachusetts voters have the opportunity to decide whether or not the MCAS exam should be used as a graduation requirement. If the majority cast a "yes" vote on Question 2, students in the class of 2025 and beyond will no longer need to pass the MCAS to receive a diploma. If more voters opt for "no," the requirement will stay as-is. Either way, students in grades 3 through 8 and grade 10 will continue to take the MCAS test each year as they do now.

The debate around the graduation requirement has been raging for two decades and there are many passionate arguments from both proponents and opponents of the ballot question. It can be overwhelming to wade through the facts and opinions flooding our newsfeeds. If you're still undecided on Question 2, we're here to help. We've put together a series of recources that sum up the implications of the ballot question and the key arguments on each side. 

QUESTION 2: A BRIEF GUIDE FOR VOTERS
Still deciding how to vote on the MCAS graduation requirement ballot question? This quick and visual summary breaks down the two sides of the argument, offers additional reading for those wanting to learn more, and digs into the question of whether the graduation requirement leads to better outcomes for students.  

READ MORE > 

A CLOSER LOOK AT THE MCAS GRADUATION REQUIREMENT
For a more in-depth look at the implications of ballot question 2, check out our blog post from April. It looks at what it takes to graduate with a Massachusetts high school diploma right now and what happens when students don't pass the MCAS on the first try. It also breaks down data and arguments offered by proponents and opponents of the ballot question.

READ MORE > 

MCAS OVERVIEW
If you'd like to understand the MCAS itself a little more before casting your vote, this two-pager offers an overview of the history and structure of the MCAS and is meant to serve as a foundation for the conversation. Remember, Massachusetts students will continue to take the MCAS regardless of the outcome of question #2.

READ MORE >