Winthrop School Committee adopts new graduation competency policy after MCAS repeal

WINTHROP — October 6, 2025 — Winthrop School Committee unanimously adopts post-MCAS graduation competency policy with retroactive diploma option. The committee voted 6-0 at its October 6 meeting to approve the new competency determination policy, developed by Superintendent Laurie Dowell and High School Principal Matt Crombie to meet a state-mandated December 1 deadline following last fall's ballot vote ending MCAS as a graduation requirement. Under the policy, students must demonstrate proficiency in ELA, Algebra 1, Geometry, and one science through coursework, final exams, or portfolio assessments, with a U.S. History requirement added for the class of 2027. A retroactive petition process opens the door to diplomas for any Winthrop High School student from 2003 through 2024 who failed to graduate solely because of MCAS. The committee also approved Warrant SVW 26-6 totaling $251,995.80 by roll call before entering executive session on collective bargaining.