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Reaching the 2024 Ballot: How Do We Get There?

All ballot initiatives follow a specific process in Massachusetts. The MTA has already cleared several steps in getting a ballot question before voters to end the high school graduation requirement of the MCAS, but we have several more to go.
reaching the 2024 ballot
By: Mary MacDonald
Published: September 2023
reaching the 2024 ballot

WHAT DOES THE INITIATIVE PETITION SAY?

The proposed law would eliminate the requirement that a student pass the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) tests (or other statewide or district-wide assessments) in mathematics, science and technology, and English in order to receive a high school diploma. Instead, in order for a student to receive a high school diploma, the proposed law would require the student to complete coursework certified by the student’s district as demonstrating mastery of the competencies contained in the state academic standards in mathematics, science and technology, and English, as well as any additional areas determined by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education."

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For the first time, Education Support Professionals had their own day of solidarity building and collaboration at the MTA Summer Conference. Held on a Sunday, because so many ESPs are forced by low wages to work additional jobs, the day encouraged members to reflect on their strengths and challenges as union members.
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The MTA represents 117,000 members in 400 local associations throughout Massachusetts. We are teachers, faculty, professional staff and Education Support Professionals working at public schools, colleges and universities across Massachusetts.
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The Massachusetts Teachers Association is a state affiliate of the National Education Association (NEA), the nation's largest professional employee organization. NEA has affiliate organizations in every state and in more than 14,000 communities across the United States.

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