US History Instruction

Massachusetts is one of only nine states that do not require students to demonstrate knowledge of history or civics to graduate from high school. The state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education postponed making US History an MCAS-tested graduation requirement, citing costs. Middle school social studies departments have been eliminated in recent years, and high schools are replacing history and social science electives with other subjects. The country faces a growing challenge of engaging future generations, including newcomers, in America’s social, economic and civic life. That’s why Pioneer has always championed high academic standards that emphasize content, including instruction in U.S. History and civics.

Visit our website devoted to US history instruction in Massachusetts:

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Learn about our Annual US History Essay Contest (1st Prize: $5,000)

READ ABOUT OUR 2015 WINNERS

READ ABOUT OUR 2014 WINNERS.

Hear from Massachusetts’ students, policy makers, and education leaders on the importance of US History instruction

Explore our gallery of primary source documents telling the story of some of America’s most important characters

Take a virtual tour of the history around you: historic buildings, statues and landmarks throughout Massachusetts, timelines of Bay State inventions and major architectural milestones, and an interactive map that lets you explore closer to home

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