School officials in Cambridge estimate that more than one-third of high school students will be unable to pass the MCAS test--and thus be unable to graduate. Last year, for example, 39 percent of tenth graders failed the math test.
Cambridge Superintendent of Schools Bobbie J. D'Alessandro has been critical of state education officials for using MCAS as the sole requirement for graduation. She said last night she has "mixed" feelings on MCAS and supports the resolution's call for other kinds of evaluations.
"I've used the MCAS as a valuable assessment tool. I use it to look at data on my students," she said. "However, I would like alternative assessments."
The resolution passed yesterday had been circulated throughout the state prior to the meeting, and its passage had been expected.
The resolution is only a statement of association's position and has no legal force. Only the state Department of Education can make the decision. Nevertheless, delegates said the resolution sent a strong message to state education officials.
"Before we hold the kids accountable, we will hold the adults accountable for an MCAS that is fair and equitable," said Barbara C. Goodman, a member of the Arlington School Committee.
State education officials contend that MCAS is essential to ensuring that school districts are held accountable under the Education Reform Act of 1993, which doubled state funding of public schools.
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