Everett High School maintains lottery system for CTE program admissions

In the heart of Everett High School, a commitment to fairness and transparency in education was at the forefront during the recent Everett School Committee meeting. As the discussion unfolded, a key topic emerged: the lottery system for Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, which has become a cornerstone of the school’s admissions process.

A committee member took the opportunity to clarify the lottery system for the audience, emphasizing its importance in ensuring equal access to educational opportunities. “We do not contact students to get in,” they explained, highlighting that this approach is already in place at Everett High School and is set to be adopted statewide in Massachusetts. The committee reassured listeners that the lottery system would remain unchanged, reinforcing their belief that it is the fairest method for student admissions.

To qualify for these sought-after programs, students must first complete an exploratory phase, which involves navigating through multiple rotations and achieving an overall grade of 60. Following this, students can apply for their preferred programs, ranking their choices. A minimum grade of 75 is required in their top choice to secure a spot in the lottery.

The committee member expressed confidence in the existing rubrics that guide this process, stating, “Those have not changed since the last policy approval.” This consistency aims to provide clarity and assurance to students and parents alike.

As the meeting wrapped up, the commitment to maintaining a fair and transparent admissions process resonated with attendees, leaving them with a sense of trust in the educational framework that supports their children’s futures. The discussion not only highlighted the importance of equitable access to education but also set the stage for ongoing conversations about how to best serve the diverse needs of the student body in Everett.