Schools need to provide resources for science

IT IS sad whenever high school seniors cannot graduate on time with their peers (“Science MCAS stymies seniors; More are failing required test,’’ Page A1, July 26). I find it frustrating, however, that the science MCAS requirement is being called unfair.

I agree with Commissioner Mitchell Chester that it is the schools’ responsibility to prepare the students well in science, by having competent teachers and appropriate science resources. What is unfair is waiting until senior year to administer a high-stakes test when the students are likely focussing on the next steps in their lives. As noted in the article, there are four different science tests that students can take, and they can be taken as early as 9th grade. The suggestion that there be two types of diplomas (one MCAS, one not), would lead us to a two-tiered system of schools - one where principals and schools are held accountable and one where they are not. Schools should ensure that graduation is not delayed or denied by preparing students for all MCAS requirements, with enough time for retakes if necessary.