This election day, question two on the state ballot asks if the MCAS graduation requirement should be eliminated. According to superintendent Andrew Stephens, even if passing MCAS is no longer necessary, LS sophomores will still take the test. However, now its purpose will only be to observe progress and determine how to help students succeed. 

Almost 22% of the state-wide class of 2019 did not pass the MCAS on their first try, and after being given other chances to meet graduation standards, only 1% didn’t graduate due to failing MCAS. For most high schoolers, the outcome of this ballot question will not have a very large impact; however, for those who are unable to pass the MCAS, this eliminated requirement would allow them the opportunity to graduate, or at least simplify the process. For example, some students with cognitive disabilities are unable to pass the MCAS and receive a certificate of completion in place of a high school diploma. Ending the MCAS requirement would give similar disadvantaged groups the ability to graduate, demonstrating the benefits of voting “yes” on question two.