Massachusetts Question 2 passes, removing MCAS testing graduation requirement

High school students in Massachusetts will no longer need to pass an MCAS standardized test to graduate in Massachusetts, with voters approving Question 2 on the ballot Tuesday.

“In passing Question 2, Massachusetts voters have proclaimed that they are ready to let teachers teach, and students learn, without the onerous effects of a high-stakes standardized test undermining the mission of public education: to prepare all students for future success as citizens, workers and creative, happy adults,” the Massachusetts Teachers Association leadership said Wednesday morning.

The Associated Press called the ballot question for the “yes” side at 3:51 a.m. Wednesday — a 58.9% to 41.1% margin with 89% of precincts reporting.

Question 2, championed primarily by the MTA, will get rid of the 10th grade MCAS standardized testing graduation requirement for students in the state. Under the question’s language, students will continue to take the test as a diagnostic tool, but graduation requirement standards will be left up to local school districts.

Read the entire piece from the Boston Herald, here.