Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Releases Statewide High School Graduation Framework

Dedham — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today released a statewide graduation framework that would set nation-leading expectations for every school and prepare all students for success after graduation.  

This initial framework was developed in collaboration with the K-12 Statewide Graduation Council and, if adopted, would represent the most robust education standards the state has ever had. It lays out a core set of subject areas that must be taken by all students before graduation and an assessment system that ensures schools are giving students the skills they need to set them up for success.  

No other state will have implemented such a comprehensive approach to setting such high standards in education, and it does this without relying on high stakes testing. No single test will represent a barrier to graduation for any student, and the 10th Grade MCAS exam would be phased out as part of this new framework.  

This framework announced today represents a first step, and the administration is committed to engaging with educators, parents, and all stakeholders to finalize the details. 

“Massachusetts has always led the way in education, and today represents another step forward on that path,” said Governor Healey. “I want every parent to know that when your kids go to a Massachusetts school, they are getting the best education that prepares them for success – whether they choose higher education, a trade, skills-based employment or the military. That's what today is about. I’m grateful to the members of the Graduation Council for their thoughtful work and to the many educators, parents and students who shared their feedback along the way. This work continues.” 

“Every student in Massachusetts deserves a roadmap through high school that prepares them for success—no matter who they are or where they come from,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This is a nation-leading framework that will strengthen our schools and our communities for generations to come.” 

The framework incorporates significant feedback and insights the administration received from students, educators, advocates, parents, business leaders, labor organizers and community stakeholders over the course of the year. This included more than 400 people who attended in-person and virtual listening sessions, including one dedicated entirely to students; 6,615 respondents from a statewide online survey; and 103 administrators who participated in a separate district leader survey. Further, the K-12 Statewide Graduation Council met multiple times throughout the year to study and review current graduation standards across the country, assess existing graduation requirements in local school districts, and review research on best practices. 

The framework consists of seven elements focused on helping students build a strong academic foundation, demonstrate mastery of course content, show their creativity and develop real-world problem-solving skills. It is a balanced system that values academic rigor, practical skills and personalized planning for all students so that they are set up for success no matter what path they choose to pursue after high school. 

Framework 

Strong Starts 

• Students complete a set of coursework that aligns with admissions requirements for higher education. 

Proven Skills 

• To show that students have mastered the course content, students complete a limited number of end-of-course (EOC) assessments and a capstone or portfolio.
  • These assessments are different from high stakes testing because students do not have to pass an EOC to graduate. EOCs will be a more targeted and relevant approach to assessment than our current high school MCAS.
  • Capstones are cumulative projects and usually include research, a written assignment, and a final presentation.
  • Portfolios are a collection of students’ best work that demonstrates mastery in one content area or across content areas. 

Bright Futures 

• Students make their own plan for college or career, complete the FAFSA or MASFA, learn financial literacy, and earn seals of distinction.
  • Massachusetts currently awards the State Seal of Biliteracy to students who attain high functional and academic levels of proficiency in English and a world language in recognition of having studied and attained proficiency in two or more languages by high school graduation. 

“Our goal is simple but transformative. We want every Massachusetts graduate to walk across that stage prepared not just with a diploma, but with a clear sense of purpose and the skills to pursue it,” said Secretary of Education and Graduation Council Co-Chair Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “The recommendations create a clear, equitable framework that will strengthen our schools and our communities for generations to come.” 

“I would like to thank the members of Graduation Council for their work and the members of the public for their valuable feedback,” said Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner and Graduation Council Co-Chair Pedro Martinez. “These recommendations will give students a concrete path toward a meaningful future and will help us build a stronger, more equitable Commonwealth.”   

Today’s announcement was made at Dedham High School, whose district has a holistic Portrait of a Graduate that closely aligns with the administration’s new Vision of a Massachusetts Graduate. Dedham High School's graduation requirements include that all students complete rigorous coursework that aligns with the minimum requirements for four-year state universities, ensuring that every door is open for students upon earning a diploma. Dedham High School also provides opportunities for students to demonstrate their unique talents through the Seal of Biliteracy. 

“I am honored for our town to host this important announcement that speaks to the innovation and leadership of Dedham’s educational commitment,” said Dedham Select Board Chair Erin Boles Welsh. “We’re excited to be recognized for our comprehensive offerings including a state-aligned curriculum, the Seal of Biliteracy that encourages language acquisition, and a wide range of AP courses that help our students get a head start on college credits.” 

“We are deeply grateful that the hard work of our educators, students, and families helped bring this historic moment to Dedham High School,” said Dedham Public Schools Superintendent Nan Murphy. “Hosting this event is an honor for our entire community and a powerful reflection of our shared commitment to ensuring that every student graduates confident, capable, and ready for what comes next.” 

This Graduation Council and work build on the administration’s “Reimagining High School Initiative,” which aims to make certain that Massachusetts students are prepared for college or careers when they graduate high school. Through this, the administration has expanded access to career-connected educational opportunities, including through career technical education programs, Early College, Innovation Career Pathways, and MyCAP. 

“I want to thank the Healey-Driscoll Administration and the Graduation Council for their commitment to preparing all Massachusetts students for success in the classroom and beyond,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “This draft offers a thoughtful pathway towards ensuring statewide consistency and meaningful learning opportunities for every student. I want to acknowledge Leader Peisch for her work on this Council on behalf of the House, and I look forward to a continued dialogue on this work in the months ahead.” 

"Massachusetts has always been a leader in education, innovation, and workforce readiness. But, unfortunately when it comes to preparing students for their financial futures we are seriously behind,” said State Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg. “The inclusion of financial education in this report is an important step toward making these essential skills available to all students. Doing so will ensure that our students will have the tools to achieve an economically stable and secure life. Thank you to Governor Healey for including this critical support for our students and to the K-12 Statewide Graduation Council for their tireless work on this report." 

“A world-class economy depends on a world-class education system. This graduation framework strengthens the bridge between schools and the opportunities waiting for students when they graduate, whether that’s college, a skilled trade, or a good job in a growing industry,” said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. “By emphasizing real-world skills, strong academic preparation, and individualized pathways, Massachusetts is taking an important step toward ensuring every young person can thrive in our economy.” 

“Academic preparation in high school is crucial to students’ success in higher education,” said Commissioner of Higher Education Noe Ortega. “All students in Massachusetts should be held to the same high standards and made aware of all the possibilities their future can hold. Through strong academic preparation and financial aid applications becoming opt-out rather than opt-in, we’re likely to see more students benefit from Governor Healey and the legislature’s historic free and affordable college programs.”  

"These thoughtful recommendations, grounded in the voices of students, educators, and community partners, truly reflect the Commonwealth’s ongoing commitment and approach to the success of all learners from early education through higher education,” said Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw. “They promote academic excellence as well as the importance of creativity, practical problem-solving, and individualized pathways to school – and life – success.” 

The Council will continue to seek input from communities across the state as they refine the recommendations and work toward a final report next year. The aim of this work is to develop a graduation framework that prepares all students for success, supports innovation, upholds Massachusetts’ legacy as a national leader in education, and keeps all postsecondary doors open for graduates.   

Statements of Support 

Representative Alice H. Peisch, Assistant Majority Leader and K-12 Statewide Graduation Council Member: 
“The Graduation Council’s Initial Report underscores the importance of setting clear, consistent expectations for all learners across the Commonwealth. The graduates we envision will define the Massachusetts we build tomorrow. I look forward to continuing this important work as we strengthen the foundation of learning for all students.” 

Representative Ken Gordon, Chairperson, Joint Committee on Education: 
“I am grateful for the hard work of the Commission in producing this timely preliminary report,” said Representative Ken Gordon, House Chair of the Joint Committee on Education. “It includes some fascinating proposals for the Joint Committee to consider. We are anxious to continue to work together to find the best path forward.” 

Representative Paul McMurtry: 
"I'm proud to represent the Town of Dedham which is home to the first taxpayer funded public school in the nation," said Representative Paul McMurtry, "history repeats itself today as Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll announce their comprehensive and transformative educational standards and opportunities for success for all students". 

Mary M. Bourque, Executive Director, Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents (M.A.S.S.):
“We are grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their leadership and to the Graduation Council for the time, expertise, and care they invested to develop these recommendations. M.A.S.S. continues to believe it is critical for Massachusetts to have a statewide standard for students to earn a high school diploma. We also believe that the number and scope of new requirements must be manageable for students, families, educators, and administrators, and that full consideration be given to the resources necessary to implement these new measures. In the weeks ahead, we look forward to engaging with Superintendents across the Commonwealth to gather their perspectives and suggestions about the Council’s preliminary recommendations, in pursuit of final recommendations that uphold our commitment to excellence and equity for every student.” 

Bob Baldwin, Executive Director of the Massachusetts School Administrators’ Association: 
“I commend the collaborative efforts of the Statewide K - 12 Graduation Council and its adherence to the Commonwealth's high standards for our high school graduates. Moving forward, Massachusetts School Leaders stand ready to provide practical implementation strategies at the local level that fit within the framework of the final graduation requirements.” 

Tim Nicolette, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Charter Public School Association: 
“The Council’s interim recommendations create a strong framework to assess whether students have attained academic, social, civic, and career-oriented skills before they are awarded high school diplomas. These standards, if implemented consistently across the Commonwealth, would help ensure that all students, in all communities across Massachusetts, are provided an education that equips them with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in college, career, and life beyond high school."  

Jessica Tang, President of the American Federation of Teachers Massachusetts and K-12 Statewide Graduation Council Member: 
“The next phase of the Council’s work will be crucial. Hashing out the final details, including implementation timelines and the availability of resources to support our schools will be the most important step to build the necessary consensus on a path forward. We have a historic opportunity here to create a better, fairer graduation system that authentically reflects the needs of our students without relying on high-stakes testing. We appreciate the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s dedication to our students, educators, and schools and remain committed to our work on the Council to ensure the needs of those most impacted by these decisions are addressed at every step of the process.”  

John J. Cabral, Taunton Public Schools Superintendent: 
“As an urban superintendent and as a father whose daughters have come through the Taunton Public Schools, I strongly support the direction outlined in the Statewide Graduation Council Interim Report. The focus on a rigorous, consistent, and equitable set of expectations mirrors what families in communities like mine need: a diploma that means every student, regardless of background or zip code, is prepared for college, career, and civic life. Growing up as an immigrant kid from São Miguel, raised in Fall River, I experienced firsthand how opportunity changes the trajectory of a family. My work now is about making sure every student has that same access to opportunity and that our graduation requirements open doors, not close them. This framework recognizes the diverse strengths of our students, respects the realities of our urban communities, and keeps all postsecondary pathways within reach. I’m grateful for the commitment shown by Secretary Tutwiler, Commissioner Martinez, and the full Council. Their work ensures that districts like Taunton can continue to prepare the next generation of thinkers, problem-solvers, and leaders who will strengthen our Commonwealth. This is the kind of vision and the kind of equity-focused structure that our students deserve.” 

Dr. Robert A. Tremblay, Framingham Public Schools Superintendent: 
“The Graduation Council is proposing a thoughtful, comprehensive and innovative set of recommendations that will help prepare every student for college, career and civic life. While there’s still a lot of work to do in a complex urban district like ours, I’m looking forward to working with the administration and Graduation Council to implement these high standards so all our students can reach their full potential and thrive.”  

Elizabeth Becker, Executive Director of Massachusetts Association of Approved Special Education Schools: 
“Many students in Massachusetts have unique needs and educational journeys. This report emphasizes that statewide graduation requirements should accommodate diverse learning needs, including those in the continuum of educational opportunities offered in Massachusetts. Thank you to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for intentionally including an advisory group for supporting students with disabilities during this development. Together, we are working to see that all students can thrive in school and beyond.” 

Annabelle Griffith, Norton High School Student Representative on the K-12 Statewide Graduation Council: 
“As a student representative on the K-12 Statewide Graduation Council, I am proud of the collaborative work we have done to ensure that every student - regardless of background or zip code - has a clear and equitable path to graduation. This report reflects months of thoughtful discussion and a shared commitment to strengthening opportunities by ensuring consistent course rigor, supporting diverse learning needs, and providing students with real-world skills and flexible pathways aligned with their future goals.” 

JD Chesloff, President & CEO of the Massachusetts Business Roundtable and K-12 Statewide Graduation Council Member: 
“In a recent survey of a diverse group of employers, 83% agreed that students across Massachusetts must be held to the same high-quality, rigorous, and equitable standard for high school graduation. The Roundtable strongly agrees and is encouraged that the Council’s Interim Report heads in that direction. We are grateful to Secretary Tutwiler, Commissioner Martinez, and the other Council members for their thoughtful leadership and look forward to finalizing the report in the coming months to achieve our charge of establishing a rigorous, uniform, and equitable high school graduation requirement for Massachusetts.” 

Ed Lambert, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Business Alliance for Education and K-12 Statewide Graduation Council Member: 
“We appreciate the thoughtful process the Secretary and Commissioner are leading to create a stronger better high school graduation requirement. We are encouraged by the preliminary recommendations which promote a broader set of skills and competencies while maintaining a focus on the core function of our schools – ensuring all students achieve a strong academic foundation. We look forward to working through the important details that will determine the true value of a high school diploma.” 

Brooke M Thomson, President and CEO of the Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM): 
“Massachusetts' economic future depends on a strong and measurable education system. Ensuring that all students meet clear and standardized expectations in core subjects is critical not only for their own success, but for the long-term competitiveness of our state. AIM and its 3,400 members applaud the K-12 Statewide Graduation Council's commitment to strengthening the Massachusetts graduation standard and considering the needs of students regardless of where they live or which school they attend. As the state considers new pathways for students, it is essential that any graduation framework maintain a consistent, reliable measure of career and college readiness for every young person. AIM urges parents, employees, and employers to engage in this work in supporting this vital set of recommendations to ensure Massachusetts remains a leader in educating our children and our future workforce.” 

Dr. Linda Thompson, President of Westfield State University and Chair of the Massachusetts State Universities Council of Presidents:  “The many voices heard by the Statewide K–12 Graduation Council provided a vital opportunity to understand the skills and competencies students need today to thrive in higher education and the workforce. Students, families, educators, and business leaders emphasized the importance of redefining what meaningful preparation looks like in a 21st-century world. These recommendations represent an important first step. We must continue to evaluate—and re-evaluate—the skills students need to succeed in business, government, and academia so that our communities can prosper.” 

William Heineman, President of North Shore Community College and Chair of the Community College Council of Presidents: 
“With the Healey-Driscoll administration and Legislature’s investments making higher education more accessible than ever, it’s even more critical that students complete the FAFSA or MASFA. We are thrilled to see these recommendations and look forward to working together with our K-12 partners towards our shared goals.” 

Ellen Kennedy, President of Berkshire Community College and K-12 Statewide Graduation Council Member: 
"Massachusetts continues to lead the nation in education because we hold high expectations for every learner and commit to a shared statewide standard for student success. The Council’s proposed graduation framework reinforces that commitment through rigorous coursework aligned to higher education and multiple demonstrations of mastery—ensuring that students are well prepared whether they choose a college pathway or move directly into a career, military service, or other opportunity.” 

Pam Nourse, Executive Director and Administration of the Federation for Children with Special Needs: 
“The Federation for Children with Special Needs is proud to have several staff members contribute to the Graduation Council’s discussions on supporting students with disabilities and English Language learners. These recommendations elevate the voices of students, families, and educators, underscoring our shared responsibility to ensure that every student is prepared for success in school and beyond. We remain committed to partnering with state leaders and communities to turn these recommendations into meaningful opportunities for all students.” 

Amanda Seider, Executive Director of OneGoal and K-12 Statewide Graduation Council Member: 
“OneGoal is pleased that the Initial Report of the K-12 Graduation Council includes important college, career, and civic readiness elements that will ensure all students receive not just a high-quality education, but also the tools they need to leverage this education beyond high school. This is a strong development toward ensuring every student's high school experience supports them in finding their purpose, and gives them the momentum they need to realize their greatest postsecondary aspirations.” 

Jim Peyser, former Secretary of Education and K-12 Statewide Graduation Council Member: 
“I commend Secretary Tutwiler and Commissioner Martinez for sketching out a balanced framework for Massachusetts’ new graduation standard. Although there is still much work to be done to flesh out the all-important details, their preliminary recommendations introduce the idea of a core academic curriculum (new to Massachusetts, but not most other states), while combining statewide end-of-course assessments on essential knowledge and skills with locally developed and administered demonstrations of deeper learning. This sharing of state and local responsibilities honors the will of the voters expressed on last year’s ballot question, while fulfilling the state’s constitutional mandate to ensure all students, regardless of zip code, graduate from high school ready to succeed in college and career.” 

Josiane Martinez, Chair of Governor Healey's Advisory Council on Latino Empowerment: 
“This framework reflects a commitment to ensuring that every student—especially those from historically underserved communities—has access to rigorous coursework, meaningful guidance, and multiple ways to demonstrate their achievement. For Latino students and families, these recommendations represent an important step toward stronger college and career preparation and a more inclusive vision of readiness. We appreciate the administration’s focus on listening to communities and look forward to partnering in the next phase of this important work.” 
 

Tanisha M. Sullivan, Chair of Governor Healey’s Advisory Council on Black Empowerment: 
“This framework provides a strong foundation for advancing educational excellence across Massachusetts by reaffirming that MassCore must be the standard for all public high schools. To be clear, our young people are not the problem, they are full of talent and potential. It is our responsibility as a Commonwealth to ensure that all students have the support they need to meet the standard, educators have the tools to guide them, and districts have the resources to fully execute this standard. As we enter the next phase of engagement before the plan is finalized, our hope is that the long-standing advocacy, experience, and perspective of the African American community will be recognized as an essential asset in shaping the path forward as we work to build an educational system that truly prepares every child for the future they deserve.” 

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