The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has begun data collection phase for North Attleborough Public Schools, which will continue through December.
This process is part of DESE’s mission to promote civil rights and ensure equitable access to special education across Massachusetts school districts.
According to Superintendent John Antonucci at the Oct. 1 School Committee meeting, the data collection is crucial in identifying and addressing areas where the district may be falling short, especially regarding accessibility. He noted that North Attleborough High School has been “historically inaccessible,” and emphasized that district-wide improvement is a priority.
The DESE review process involves in-depth data analysis and self-reflection from teachers, principals, and administrators. The department also values feedback from the community to support its goal of creating inclusive, equitable educational environments.
This year, DESE aims to engage in meaningful conversations with district leaders to ensure that North Attleborough schools are working towards eliminating bias, racism and barriers to equal access.
DESE’s last report on North Attleborough Public Schools was released in 2022, with this year’s report expected in January 2024. The findings will provide the district with key insights into how they can continue to expand their equity-sustaining practices and support diverse student needs.
Antonucci reaffirmed the district’s dedication to improvement, stating, “Our commitment to deeper learning is embedded in everything we do… Goal number one is student learning.”
The committee is looking forward to DESE’s final report, which will serve as a roadmap for continued progress in building a more inclusive and equitable educational experience for North Attleborough students.
