Massachusetts Teachers Association
Coverage of Massachusetts Teachers Association in the Nexus archive.
- Proposed graduation requirements revive debate over standardized testing
Massachusetts state officials propose new standardized exams in English, math, and science as part of high school graduation requirements, reviving debate over testing after voters eliminated the MCAS requirement in 2024. The proposal includes MassCore coursework, capstone projects, and financial/digital literacy requirements, but does not clarify if passing the tests is mandatory for graduation. Supporters argue for consistency in diplomas, while critics claim it reintroduces high-stakes testing under a new name.
- Healey seeks $100 million in additional school funding as districts confront mounting financial strain
Governor Maura Healey proposed an additional $100 million in public school funding for Massachusetts to address financial challenges like enrollment declines and rising costs. The funds aim to prevent program cuts and layoffs, with existing K-12 funding at over $7 billion in the 2027 budget.
- State gives clearance for three-year degree programs at two colleges
Merrimack College and Suffolk University received state approval to offer three-year bachelor’s degrees in specific fields, starting in fall 2027. The programs aim to reduce costs and time to graduation but face criticism from the Massachusetts Teachers Association, which calls them 'sub-par' and warns of creating a two-tiered education system.