SENATE GIVES INITIAL APPROVAL TO MEASURE STRENGTHENING STANDARDS-BASED DIPLOMAS

AUGUSTA–A bill aimed at strengthening standards-based diplomas received unanimous consent “under the hammer” today in the Maine Senate.

The bill, as amended in committee, is turned into a resolve that creates the Maine Proficiency Education Council to study and make recommendations for a five-year plan for to fully implement proficiency-based graduation requirements across the state.

Sen. Justin Alfond of Portland

“There are some major issues that need to be addressed before standards based is adopted fully throughout Maine,” said State Senate Democratic Leader Justin Alfond of Portland, the sponsor of the measure. “This measure is crucial toward keeping up statewide momentum and supporting our educators as they make this transition.”

The Legislature enacted standards-based diplomas to ensure students can demonstrate proficiency in key areas before graduating.

The measure, LD 1235, “An Act To Strengthen Standards-based Diplomas,” received unanimous support from the state’s Education and Cultural Affairs Committee and will now move on to the House for consideration.

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