THE MASSACHUSETTS COMPREHENSIVE

ASSESSMENT SYSTEM

The Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) is currently administered to students in Grades 3 through 10 in the spring of each school year.  Students are tested in designated major subject areas of Reading, English/Language Arts, History/Social Science, Mathematics, and Science/Technology.  These MCAS tests are aligned with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and the Somerville Curriculum Guide.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to review these curriculum materials and to impress upon their children both the importance of the MCAS and the need to accomplish as high a score as possible.  Current Department of Education policies require passing two MCAS tests to receive a high school diploma from Somerville High School.  These two tests are the English/Language Arts Test and the Mathematics Test. 

Beginning in 2010, all students will also be required to pass an MCAS Science test in order to receive a Somerville High School diploma.

Any student failing either the English Test or the Mathematics Test will have an Individual Student Support Plan (ISSP) signed by the parent and on file in the school.  The ISSP details support services available to assist the student in passing future MCAS tests.

All students in Grades 11 or 12 yet to pass either test required for high school graduation will be required to take MCAS Prep Courses for credit toward graduation.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to contact their principal with regard to any information about the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System.

2010-2011 MCAS and MEPA TESTING DATES