Database contains information from the 20 largest school districts in the state 

April 24, 2020 — Schools are closed for the foreseeable future, making remote learning an important topic. Students cannot afford to have learning stand still. To inform an open, public conversation about the effectiveness of state and district policies, the Massachusetts Business Alliance for Education (MBAE) has reviewed the ways many Massachusetts school districts are delivering remote learning, and created a database that allows those plans to be compared in several aspects.

MBAE’s database looks at key components of district plans including: whether districts are teaching new content or covering previously taught material; whether teachers are expected to regularly check in with students; if teachers are required to provide feedback on student work; and whether districts are providing internet access and technology support to those in need. While it may not include other relevant information not currently publicly shared, or reflect the fidelity of implementation or the experiences of all students within a district, the data make it clear that the deployment of remote learning in Massachusetts, at least in its design, is highly inconsistent at this time, raising concern that such disparities could broaden achievement gaps across and within districts while also complicating efforts to develop a cohesive return-to-school strategy.

The initial version of the database released today contains information on the 20 largest school districts by total student enrollment, which collectively educate 29% of Massachusetts’ public school students. The information comes from school districts’ websites and public communications to students, parents, teachers and community members.

MBAE recognizes that districts and teachers have had to react rapidly and make difficult decisions in the face of unanticipated closures and constraints. School plans and practices have evolved, and will likely continue to evolve as the duration of school closures have been extended and the timing of a return to classroom learning is uncertain. New guidance on remote learning strategies and expectations is expected from the Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education in the coming days. MBAE will be updating this spreadsheet as plans change and more information becomes available.

MBAE believes that every student should be able to continue to engage in substantive learning despite schools being closed. Remote learning will remain relevant well into the future. MBAE is working to ensure technology and internet connectivity issues are addressed, robust remote learning plans that move student learning forward are implemented, and a strategy for measuring and addressing learning loss is developed.

To review the database, visit our dedicated webpage.