I appreciated the October 18 letter regarding the vote on the MCAS. I disagree that the poor performance by historically underserved groups highlights that the test is inequitable. In my opinion, it highlights that the world is inequitable. Lowering the standard so that kids who have less can get by isn’t the answer. It perpetuates the equity gap. For a longitudinal study, see the July 2024 Annenberg Report.
Every standardized test has some inherent bias; it’s difficult and maybe impossible to eliminate completely. While standardized tests aren’t perfect and should not be the only measure, they provide a metric by which everyone can be assessed. The MCAS is a valid, reliable, and rigorous assessment that asks students to read carefully, think critically, and write well. It’s not perfect, and it does contribute to stress for kids and adults. So do the SAT, the ACT, and competitive sports.
It’s true that teachers and schools will still have MCAS data, and the truth is, not much will change in the Concord-Carlisles of the Commonwealth. But without the teeth of a graduation requirement, it may enable lower-performing students to fall through the cracks. If districts and schools are not held accountable for students’ passing the MCAS, will they still invest in the supports and resources to get them over that threshold? In some districts, absolutely. In others, unless their accountability status is at stake, definitely not.
After working with districts and schools in Massachusetts and across the country over the past 20 years, I’ve met a lot of people with a “these kids can’t” attitude. We have to say, “All kids can, and you must hold them to the same standard.”
Maintain high standards for all kids; vote No on question 2.
Robin Ahigian
Black Duck Road
