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.