at least one AP exam during high school, 67% of seniors scoring a three or higher on at least one AP exam, and 13% of seniors who took five or more AP exams. Cohen highlighted particularly strong performing arts programs, including music and drama, as well as student success in competitive and leadership organizations. She also noted the district’s exceptional DECA program, with high participation and students reaching advanced levels in competition and leadership, including roles on the state-level DECA board. Supporting the whole child, and the whole learner, is a strategic priority tied directly to the district’s equity and well-being focus. Cohen describes increased in-house staffing in response to evolving student needs, reducing reliance on contracted services and expanding internal capacity for counseling and therapeutic support. The district has added adjustment counselors and built additional supports at the elementary and middle school levels, including services to support students returning from home hospitalization and other transitions that require and instruction, the district is thrilled that their investments in data systems, state approved instructional materials, and refinement of MultiTiered Systems of Support are leading to tangible student growth and achievement. Out of over 300 school districts in Massachusetts, Mendon-Upton was recognized as one of only 54 districts that have surpassed pre-pandemic student achievement in math in grades 3-8. Cohen indicated that this improvement was a direct result of the introduction of high-quality instructional materials in math alongside the use of data inquiry protocols in data team meetings. Student engagement beyond academics is another area of strength. The district reports broad participation in athletics and a strong culture of extracurricular involvement. It also maintains open enrollment for Advanced Placement courses, increasing access and participation while still supporting rigorous academic pathways. Nipmuc was just named Gold Status on the College Board AP Honor Roll. Nipmuc had 75% of seniors who took 331 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02 MENDON-UPTON REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
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