Join EdTrust in Massachusetts and The MassINC Polling Group Thursday, December 10, 2026, from 10:00–11:30 AM ET for a virtual event, “Beyond the Diploma: What Massachusetts Parents Say About Postsecondary Readiness.”
As Massachusetts develops new high school graduation standards and continues expanding investments in higher education, attention is turning to a critical question: How do we ensure every student has the preparation, opportunities, and supports needed to thrive, no matter which path they pursue after high school? And what paths are students actually planning to take?
During the event, we’ll share findings from our latest statewide parent poll, featuring perspectives from more than 1,000 Massachusetts parents with children in grades 6–12. We’ll explore what parents think about shifting graduation standards, their children’s plans after high school, and how prepared they believe students are for the future. We’ll also examine the pathways students are considering — from college and career training to entering the workforce — what’s driving those decisions, and what supports families believe students need to succeed.
We’ll begin with a presentation of the poll’s key findings by Steve Koczela, President of The MassINC Polling Group. A panel of experts, policymakers, practitioners, and field leaders will then discuss what the findings mean for Massachusetts. The event will conclude with an audience Q&A.