Canton School District prepares for MCAS graduation requirement changes amid Wisconsin school shooting tragedy

The Canton School Committee meeting on December 19, 2024, focused on several key topics, including the district's response to recent tragic events and significant changes to graduation requirements.

Superintendent Follin opened the meeting by expressing condolences and support for the community of Madison, Wisconsin, following a recent school shooting. He emphasized the impact such events have on schools nationwide and thanked the Canton Police Department for increasing patrols in response to community concerns.

The meeting also highlighted a traditional event at JFK Elementary, where students participated in creating a "hule log," a festive activity that fosters community spirit and family remembrance during the holiday season.

A major discussion point was the recent legislative change regarding the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). The committee learned that MCAS is no longer a graduation requirement for high school students. While the assessment will still be administered in various grades, it will not determine diploma eligibility. This shift requires the committee to revise school policies and develop new competency determination processes to ensure students meet local graduation requirements.

Superintendent Follin noted that Canton is well-positioned to adapt to these changes due to its rigorous graduation standards. The committee will work on drafting new language for these policies, aiming to implement the changes smoothly and efficiently.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to student safety and academic integrity while celebrating community traditions. The committee plans to continue addressing these important issues in future meetings.