“In Theory It’s a Good Idea:” Understanding Implementation of Proficiency-Based Education in Maine

This report summarizes a study conducted by EDC as part of JFF’s Student-Centered Learning Research Collaborative’s investigation of student-centered approaches to improve outcomes for learners of all backgrounds, particularly those who have been marginalized or underserved by the current system. Over two years, EDC partnered with 10 districts in rural Maine that were in the process of implementing the state’s requirement that students graduate with a proficiency-based diploma, to study students’ exposure to student-centered, proficiency-based education and the relationship between exposure and student academic performance and engagement.