Massachusetts: Home of the Early Innovators

This is the twelfth post in the series Reaching the Tipping Point: Insights on Advancing Competency Education in New England.

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is the only state in New England that has not taken proactive steps toward introducing or advancing competency education statewide despite there being no significant policy obstacles beyond the end-of-year grade level accountability exams. Massachusetts has deployed a state exit examination as its high-leverage strategy to improve student achievement and ensure proficiency. Currently, students must score at a passing level on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System in English, math, and science.

As in other states, however, individual schools and districts often move ahead of the state leadership in building new approaches and working collaboratively around challenging issues. Massachusetts is home to two of the early models of competency-based education: Diploma Plus and Boston Day and Evening Academy. There are also a number of other schools across the state using rich, personalized learning strategies to engage students in their learning. For example, in Chelsea High School, a number of practices such as performance-based assessments and inquiry-based learning have deepened the learning opportunities. Plymouth high schools are creating more personalized approaches, including authentic assessments and involving students in leadership and decision-making.

Six districts are participating in the newly formed Massachusetts Consortium for Innovative Education Assessment. The governing board is comprised of the superintendents and teacher union presidents from each member district, with staffing provided by the Center for Collaborative Education. The goal of the MCIEA is to “re-conceptualize assessment rather than tinker to refine a testing model that has limited value in furthering public education.”

Other articles about Massachusetts:

• Melrose
• Boston Day and Evening Academy