CCHS reports gains in advanced course access for Black, low-income students

CONCORD, Superintendent Dr. Laurie Hunter and Co-Principals Brian Miller and Katie Stahl presented an update on Concord-Carlisle High School's work to expand academic opportunity, support student well-being and strengthen students' sense of belonging at the School Committee meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 7, the Town of Concord announced.

The presentation covered Youth Risk Behavior Survey results, progress on access to advanced coursework, fall initiatives and the school's recent recognition as a Challenge Success Spotlight School for its well-being work.

The effort began with a 2023-24 review of achievement and enrollment data that found Black and low-income students were less likely to enroll in honors-level coursework despite earning grades similar to their peers. The review also found gaps tied to course prerequisites, a lack of an honors option in social studies and limited pathways from lower-level math to Advanced Placement courses.

In response, the school added honors-level coursework in social studies and AP coursework in English, adjusted math and science course levels, reviewed prerequisites and screened course recommendations for potential bias.

Data presented at an August 2026 faculty meeting showed increases in advanced course enrollment among Black and low-income students across science, English, world language and math between 2023 and 2026. Honors enrollment among students in the Metropolitan Council for Educational Opportunity program rose from 14% in 2024 to 65% in 2026, with average grades remaining a B.

"We want students to see advanced coursework as an option for them and know they will have support if they decide to take that next step," Miller and Stahl said in the release. "Our teachers and department chairs have put a great deal of work into making that possible."

Forty-six students are taking part in the school's first year of concurrent enrollment through the Commonwealth Dual Enrollment Partnership, with four enrolled in both offered courses. The spring 2026 Youth Risk Behavior Survey also found 94% of students reported having a trusted adult at CCHS and 98% reported having one outside school.

Source: Town of Concord announcement, October 16, 2026.

Checked against the record: before publication this article was automatically compared with the original announcement.