State seeks public feedback on high school graduation requirements

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll administration invites the public to help inform how high school graduation requirement recommendations will take shape before the final K-12 Statewide Graduation Council report is released in June. Students, parents, caregivers, educators, district leaders, businesses and community members can complete a survey, estimated to take 10 to 12 minutes, at tinyurl.com/GradRequirementSurvey.

Gov. Maura Healey established the K-12 Statewide Graduation Council through executive order. In collaboration with the council, Healey released a statewide graduation framework in December. The framework consists of seven elements focused on helping students build a strong academic foundation, demonstrate mastery of course content, show their creativity and develop real-world problem-solving skills.

Information from the survey will inform the K-12 Statewide Graduation Council’s final implementation recommendations on how Massachusetts can ensure all students demonstrate they meet a consistent set of expectations. Input provided will help ensure the graduation requirements are responsive to the needs of students, families, educators and communities across the state.

For more information on the council, the public survey and the interim recommendations, visit Mass.gov/K12GradCouncil. 

Applications sought for Farm Readiness Grant Program

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources is accepting applications for the fiscal year 2026 Farm Readiness Grant Program, a new funding opportunity for installation-ready equipment and infrastructure upgrades that can be completed on an accelerated timeline. Applications are due by 4 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17.

Reimbursements of up to $50,000 per farm are available, with a 20% cash match required. Massachusetts farms that have been in production for at least three years are eligible, and all projects must be completed and invoiced by June 30, 2026.

For more information, visit mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-the-farm-readiness-grant-program.

Massachusetts Association of Insurance Agents launches Insurance Career Pathway program

MILFORD — The Massachusetts Association of Insurance Agents launched its Insurance Career Pathway program, a workforce development initiative designed to recruit, train and license new talent for the property and casualty (P&C) insurance industry.

The program aims to build a pipeline of new professionals as staffing needs continue to grow across independent agencies. Through a structured curriculum, participants receive foundational training in personal lines coverage, customer service and agency operations, along with guided preparation for the Massachusetts Property & Casualty licensing exam.

“Finding and developing new talent is a top priority for our industry,” said Nick Fyntrilakis, president and CEO of the Massachusetts Association of Insurance Agents. “The Insurance Career Pathway program introduces motivated individuals to insurance careers while helping MAIA member agencies connect with trained, entry-level professionals who are ready to contribute from day one.”

The association offers a scholarship-funded program to individuals who are not currently working in the insurance industry and are interested in beginning a professional career in personal lines insurance. Participants receive full tuition coverage — a $2,000 value — along with one attempt at a state licensing exam, foundational agency training and ongoing support. The first class began on Feb. 17, with additional classes to be offered on a rolling basis throughout the year.

A $150 refundable commitment fee is required upon acceptance and will be refunded upon successful completion of the program. Eligibility requirements include:

  • Massachusetts residency.
  • 18 years of age or older.
  • Not currently employed by a MAIA member agency.
  • Legally authorized to work in the U.S.
  • Ability to complete the full program schedule.
  • Meeting Massachusetts licensure suitability standards (including no disqualifying criminal history).

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Selected applicants will participate in a pre-admission interview prior to acceptance. To learn more or to apply, visit massagent.com/insurance-career-pathway-scholarship-application.