The Thrive Act Coalition
Thrive Act: An Act Empowering Students and Schools to Thrive
To support students, especially in high-poverty schools that have been most affected by inequities and pandemic’s disruption, we need a better system of assessment and improvement that considers the whole child, and focuses on giving students and educators the tools and resources they need to succeed and thrive. State takeovers haven’t achieved their goals and we need a different approach. Due to our collective organizing and advocacy, Holyoke exited state takeover in July 2025 after a decade of state control. But Lawrence and Southbridge remain under takeover today, and student learning environments and outcomes in these districts have not improved despite years of state control. The Thrive Act would end the state takeovers of local public schools and centers our communities in building schools for all students to thrive.
What will the Thrive Act do?
Implement a ‘comprehensive support and improvement’ system that focuses on giving students and educators the tools and resources they need to succeed, while ending the existing state takeover system.
Require local plans to tackle the root causes of education disparities, including racial inequalities.
Give students, parents, educators, and local communities a real voice in how their schools are run.
Create clear pathways for improvement, including the funding necessary to support evidence-based programs, supports, and interventions.
Establish a commission to study and make recommendations for a more authentic and accurate system for assessing students, schools and school districts, including strategies that would require changes in federal law.
End all existing state takeover of school districts within one year.
Let’s do this, together.
For students, families, educators, school staff and community members, click the button to share your support
For groups and organizations, click the button to endorse the Thrive Act
Learn more!
Follow the bill on the Massachusetts Legislature’s website.
More resources to come!