BArT Charter Public School Named a School of Recognition by DESE
ADAMS, Mass.— Berkshire Arts and Technology Charter Public School (BArT) has been named a School of Recognition by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
As part of its annual accountability reporting process, DESE identifies a small number of schools that demonstrate high achievement, significant growth, and progress toward meeting or exceeding accountability targets.
"This recognition is a reflection of the incredible work happening every day at BART," said Jonathan Igoe, Executive Director. "Our teachers and staff are deeply committed to helping every student reach their potential, and our students continue to show us what they can do when they are challenged, supported, and encouraged to do their best."
Below are several highlights:
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10th grade students at BArT earned high growth (SGP above 75) in both ELA and math. 7th and 8th graders also showed strong growth in both ELA and math.
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8th grade outcomes were strong. In science and technology, 61 percent of 8th graders met or exceeded expectations – 22 percent above the state average. The percentage of students meeting or exceeding expectations also increased year over year for 8th grade math, science and technology, and civics.
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10th grade ELA achievement improved significantly, outperforming state averages. 68 percent of 10th graders at BART met or exceeded expectations on the ELA MCAS.
Additionally, BArT saw progress toward targets on the state's School Accountability Report with a score of 58. The score includes data for attendance, state tests, high school completion, and advanced coursework.
To ensure continued progress and opportunity for BArT students, the school has:
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Expanded Advanced Placement (AP) course offerings. BART now offers 12 AP courses, and the number of students taking AP courses doubled just this past year.
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Improved communication with families and increased awareness of attendance policies and expectations.
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Launched workforce-aligned training and certification programs as part of BArT's high school curriculum, including a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification program and a computer science credential (CompTIA Tech+)
The 2026 Schools of Recognition were identified through DESE's annual school accountability system. This year, they highlighted 56 schools across Massachusetts that demonstrate notable achievement and progress based on the state's accountability measures.
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