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School committee approves competency-determination policy aligned to new DESE framework
Summary
The Rockport School Committee approved a competency-determination policy aligning district graduation criteria with new state guidance replacing MCAS-based requirements; the policy adds portfolio and alternative assessments, an appeals process and protections for students with disabilities.
The Rockport School Committee unanimously approved a revised competency determination (CD) policy that aligns local graduation requirements with the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education and DESE high‑school readiness framework released after the ballot change that removed MCAS as a universal graduation requirement. Jody Goodhue, director of teaching and learning, explained the policy defines district-level demonstrations of mastery — such as end-of-course assessments, culminating projects or portfolio reviews — and clarifies accommodations and alternative assessments for students with disabilities consistent with IDEA and FAPE.
"Students with disabilities are allowed... their accommodations and modifications to access assessments," Goodhue said, outlining options including portfolio review and case-by-case decisions for English learners. The policy also creates a two-step appeals process (teacher/department then Amy Rose and Goodhue) for students who believe they meet CD requirements but were not granted them. Committee members discussed state templates and the policy's upload to DESE's GEMS system with a December 31 deadline; the committee voted to approve the policy as presented.
