Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (continued)

8. How do students with disabilities participate in MCAS tests?

The student's IEP Team or 504 team must determine annually how a student with disabilities will participate in MCAS in each subject scheduled for assessment. This information must be documented in the student's IEP and should be documented in the student's 504 Plan. The team may determine that the student can take the standard test with or without accommodations or may be eligible to take the MCAS Alternate Assessment. Guidelines to assist IEP Teams and 504 teams in making decisions regarding how each student will participate in MCAS tests are available in the Requirements for the Participation of Students with Disabilities in MCAS.

For more information, refer to Participation Requirements for Students.

9. How do students with limited English proficiency participate in MCAS tests?

All limited English proficient students must participate in all MCAS tests scheduled for their grades regardless of the number of years they have been in the U.S. The only exception is for LEP students who are in their first year of enrollment in U.S. schools. These students are not required to participate in MCAS English Language Arts tests. Any student who currently is or has been an LEP student may use an approved bilingual word-to-word dictionary on MCAS tests.

Spanish-speaking LEP students in grade 10 who have been enrolled in schools in the continental U.S. for fewer than three years may take the English/Spanish version of the Mathematics test if they can read and write at or near grade level in Spanish. Students may write their answers in English or Spanish. All students must take the English Language Arts tests in English.

In addition to participating in MCAS, limited English proficient students must annually take the Massachusetts English Proficiency Assessment (MEPA) tests in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

For more information, refer to Participation Requirements for Students.

10. What types of state-funded academic support programs are available for high school students or young adults who left high school without receiving a high school diploma?

High school programs, community college programs, career centers, and other opportunities are available. View Pathways to Success.