Mass. AFL-CIO endorses YES on 2
Mass. AFL-CIO endorses YES on 2
The Massachusetts AFL-CIO has endorsed Question 2, the ballot initiative to end the use of standardized MCAS exams as a high-school graduation requirement and instead have districts certify that a student has completed coursework aligned with the state’s academic standards.
Mass. AFL-CIO President Chrissy Lynch issued the following statement:
“Like tens of thousands of union members in Massachusetts, I am a parent with children in public schools who sees firsthand the effects of high-stakes testing on students’ learning environments. All children deserve a comprehensive education. Making MCAS a high-stakes exam has narrowed the curriculum and made it more difficult for educators to tailor lessons to the needs of students.
“When educators can utilize their professional expertise in the classroom, more students will thrive. And students most harmed by the standardized-test graduation requirement – those with academic needs, or whose first language is not English, or who are struggling with the impact of poverty – are especially deserving of more authentic learning and a comprehensive education that will help them succeed in higher education and in the workforce.
“Passing Question 2 lets our highly qualified teachers do the job they are trained and licensed to do. The AFL-CIO urges working families and supporters of public education to vote Yes on 2 for the betterment of public schools in Massachusetts.”
Mass. AFL-CIO President Chrissy Lynch
“Passing Question 2 lets our highly qualified teachers do the job they are trained and licensed to do. The AFL-CIO urges working families and supporters of public education to vote Yes on 2 for the betterment of public schools in Massachusetts.”
The Massachusetts Teachers Association is a leader in the Yes on 2 coalition. MTA President Max Page and Vice President Deb McCarthy serve as vice presidents on the AFL-CIO’s executive council and issued the following statement:
“We could not be prouder of this endorsement for Question 2 by the powerful voice of working families in Massachusetts. Support from union members across the state affiliated with the AFL-CIO was key in defeating a dangerous expansion of privately operated, publicly funded charter schools and winning both the Student Opportunity Act and the Fair Share Amendment. These victories led to public schools with more funding and resources so working families can know that their children are receiving a high-quality education that will prepare them for their future. Passing Question 2 will be another crucial victory for our communities and our state’s economy.”