Criticism of Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System

Critics have attacked the test for being overly difficult and a poor assessment tool, citing the high stakes involved in taking the test. A student must pass the MCAS in order to graduate from high school, a standard which critics have greatly protested. MCAS pilot tests are criticized as functioning poorly. Students are told before hand that the tests they are piloting do not count. According to critics, this prevents these students from taking the test seriously. MCAS tests are also criticized for consuming too much of the budget. Also because of the timing and content of MCAS many teachers have lesson plans which allow for little deviation into areas which may allow for a better understanding of the subject. It also creates a hurried atmosphere in the classroom in which there is low morale among some teachers and students.