It was a bit of a disjointed week, with the snow day, delayed start, and half-day, as we started second semester. Today was the final day for course changes for the second semester, and most classes should be locked for the second half of the year.

CAPS Diploma for Seniors

Some of you may recall that last year the Uxbridge School Committee approved new Graduation Requirements. We are excited to present these, as they provide greater flexibility and support while maintaining our high academic standards. These changes reflect our commitment to providing multiple pathways to success while ensuring all graduates are well-prepared for their future endeavors. While the change to the MCAS requirement certainly contributed to the discussion last year, the time was right for us to investigate and revise our policy. The changes we adopted last year and subsequently revised in 2026-27 reflect our commitment to providing multiple pathways to success while ensuring all graduates are well-prepared for their future endeavors.

This year’s revisions arose out of a new requirement from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, in that we needed to define “mastery.” We are sharing that information separately in a letter for all students and families. For members of our Class of 2026, most have met their graduation requirements, both in terms of the courses Uxbridge requires as well as the minimum requirements for mastery as aligned with the state guidance released this fall.  

Uxbridge CAPS Diploma Opportunity

We have also introduced the Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS) Diploma, an additional distinction available to students who go above and beyond our standard graduation requirements. Some may know that UHS is an affiliate of the international CAPS Network, which has enabled us to expand our own capacity in the world of post-secondary planning for students and partnerships with industry. It signifies specialized learning and achievement within a chosen career pathway, which involves not only technical and academic achievement, but a focus on real-world learning and skill development. To earn this special diploma, students must successfully complete at least four of these six criteria:

1. Meeting or exceeding expectations on all three MCAS exams

2. Completing technical requirements in a career pathway

3. Successfully completing at least one AP course

4. Completing a dual enrollment, early college, or articulated credit course

5. Earning an industry credential or achievement (such as the Seal of Biliteracy)

6. Successfully completing an approved internship or Capstone project

Recognizing that this is the inaugural year for the CAPS Diploma, we want to make the application process as smooth as possible for our first cohort of eligible students. We hope that seniors in the Class of 2026 who believe they are eligible for the CAPS Diploma fill out the CAPS Diploma Eligibility Form, after which a conversation with their counselor will take place. 

These changes reflect our commitment to providing a more personalized and flexible approach to education while maintaining high standards. We believe these updates will better serve our diverse student population and prepare them for success in college, career, and life.

If you have any questions about these changes, please do not hesitate to reach out to our school counseling department or administration.