Healey-Driscoll Administration Releases Statewide High School Graduation Framework
Initial framework sets nation-leading graduation standards to prepare all students for success in whatever career path they choose
Does not rely on one-size-fits-all high stakes testing, and 10th grade MCAS will be phased out as part of implementation of new framework
DEDHAM — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today released a statewide graduation framework that would set nation-leading expectations for every school and prepare all students for success after graduation.
This initial framework was developed in collaboration with the K-12 Statewide Graduation Council and, if adopted, would represent the most robust education standards the state has ever had. It lays out a core set of subject areas that must be taken by all students before graduation and an assessment system that ensures schools are giving students the skills they need to set them up for success.
No other state will have implemented such a comprehensive approach to setting such high standards in education, and it does this without relying on high stakes testing. No single test will represent a barrier to graduation for any student, and the 10th Grade MCAS exam would be phased out as part of this new framework.
This framework announced today represents a first step, and the administration is committed to engaging with educators, parents, and all stakeholders to finalize the details.
“Massachusetts has always led the way in education, and today represents another step forward on that path,” said Governor Healey. “I want every parent to know that when your kids go to a Massachusetts school, they are getting the best education that prepares them for success – whether they choose higher education, a trade, skills-based employment or the military. That's what today is about. I’m grateful to the members of the Graduation Council for their thoughtful work and to the many educators, parents and students who shared their feedback along the way. This work continues.”
“Every student in Massachusetts deserves a roadmap through high school that prepares them for success—no matter who they are or where they come from,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This is a nation-leading framework that will strengthen our schools and our communities for generations to come.”
The framework incorporates significant feedback and insights the administration received from students, educators, advocates, parents, business leaders, labor organizers and community stakeholders over the course of the year. This included more than 400 people who attended in-person and virtual listening sessions, including one dedicated entirely to students; 6,615 respondents from a statewide online survey; and 103 administrators who participated in a separate district leader survey. Further, the K-12 Statewide Graduation Council met multiple times throughout the year to study and review current graduation standards across the country, assess existing graduation requirements in local school districts, and review research on best practices.
The framework consists of seven elements focused on helping students build a strong academic foundation, demonstrate mastery of course content, show their creativity and develop real-world problem-solving skills. It is a balanced system that values academic rigor, practical skills and personalized planning for all students so that they are set up for success no matter what path they choose to pursue after high school.
Framework
Strong Starts
- Students complete a set of coursework that aligns with admissions requirements for higher education.
Proven Skills
- To show that students have mastered the course content, students complete a limited number of end-of-course (EOC) assessments and a capstone or portfolio.
- These assessments are different from high stakes testing because students do not have to pass an EOC to graduate. EOCs will be a more targeted and relevant approach to assessment than our current high school MCAS.
- Capstones are cumulative projects and usually include research, a written assignment, and a final presentation.
- Portfolios are a collection of students’ best work that demonstrates mastery in one content area or across content areas.
Bright Futures
- Students make their own plan for college or career, complete the FAFSA or MASFA, learn financial literacy, and earn seals of distinction.
- Massachusetts currently awards the State Seal of Biliteracy to students who attain high functional and academic levels of proficiency in English and a world language in recognition of having studied and attained proficiency in two or more languages by high school graduation.
“Our goal is simple but transformative. We want every Massachusetts graduate to walk across that stage prepared not just with a diploma, but with a clear sense of purpose and the skills to pursue it,” said Secretary of Education and Graduation Council Co-Chair Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “The recommendations create a clear, equitable framework that will strengthen our schools and our communities for generations to come.”
“I would like to thank the members of Graduation Council for their work and the members of the public for their valuable feedback,” said Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner and Graduation Council Co-Chair Pedro Martinez. “These recommendations will give students a concrete path toward a meaningful future and will help us build a stronger, more equitable Commonwealth.”
Today’s announcement was made at Dedham High School, whose district has a holistic Portrait of a Graduate that closely aligns with the administration’s new Vision of a Massachusetts Graduate. Dedham High School's graduation requirements include that all students complete rigorous coursework that aligns with the minimum requirements for four-year state universities, ensuring that every door is open for students upon earning a diploma. Dedham High School also provides opportunities for students to demonstrate their unique talents through the Seal of Biliteracy.
“I am honored for our town to host this important announcement that speaks to the innovation and leadership of Dedham’s educational commitment,” said Dedham Select Board Chair Erin Boles Welsh. “We’re excited to be recognized for our comprehensive offerings including a state-aligned curriculum, the Seal of Biliteracy that encourages language acquisition, and a wide range of AP courses that help our students get a head start on college credits.”
“We are deeply grateful that the hard work of our educators, students, and families helped bring this historic moment to Dedham High School,” said Dedham Public Schools Superintendent Nan Murphy. “Hosting this event is an honor for our entire community and a powerful reflection of our shared commitment to ensuring that every student graduates confident, capable, and ready for what comes next.”
This Graduation Council and work build on the administration’s “Reimagining High School Initiative,” which aims to make certain that Massachusetts students are prepared for college or careers when they graduate high school. Through this, the administration has expanded access to career-connected educational opportunities, including through career technical education programs, Early College, Innovation Career Pathways, and MyCAP.
“I want to thank the Healey-Driscoll Administration and the Graduation Council for their commitment to preparing all Massachusetts students for success in the classroom and beyond,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “This draft offers a thoughtful pathway towards ensuring statewide consistency and meaningful learning opportunities for every student. I want to acknowledge Leader Peisch for her work on this Council on behalf of the House, and I look forward to a continued dialogue on this work in the months ahead.”
"Massachusetts has always been a leader in education, innovation, and workforce readiness. But, unfortunately when it comes to preparing students for their financial futures we are seriously behind,” said State Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg. “The inclusion of financial education in this report is an important step toward making these essential skills available to all students. Doing so will ensure that our students will have the tools to achieve an economically stable and secure life. Thank you to Governor Healey for including this critical support for our students and to the K-12 Statewide Graduation Council for their tireless work on this report."
“A world-class economy depends on a world-class education system. This graduation framework strengthens the bridge between schools and the opportunities waiting for students when they graduate, whether that’s college, a skilled trade, or a good job in a growing industry,” said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. “By emphasizing real-world skills, strong academic preparation, and individualized pathways, Massachusetts is taking an important step toward ensuring every young person can thrive in our economy.”
“Academic preparation in high school is crucial to students’ success in higher education,” said Commissioner of Higher Education Noe Ortega. “All students in Massachusetts should be held to the same high standards and made aware of all the possibilities their future can hold. Through strong academic preparation and financial aid applications becoming opt-out rather than opt-in, we’re likely to see more students benefit from Governor Healey and the legislature’s historic free and affordable college programs.”
"These thoughtful recommendations, grounded in the voices of students, educators, and community partners, truly reflect the Commonwealth’s ongoing commitment and approach to the success of all learners from early education through higher education,” said Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw. “They promote academic excellence as well as the importance of creativity, practical problem-solving, and individualized pathways to school – and life – success.”
The Council will continue to seek input from communities across the state as they refine the recommendations and work toward a final report next year. The aim of this work is to develop a graduation framework that prepares all students for success, supports innovation, upholds Massachusetts’ legacy as a national leader in education, and keeps all postsecondary doors open for graduates.
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