MSDE Endorsements (2026-27)

A formal, statewide recognition of the additional skills a student gained in school, showing they are ready for postsecondary programs, employment, or community life.

An Equity Piece

• Students on the diploma track get recognition on their transcripts for preparing for life after school. Endorsements give students on the certificate track the same benefit.

Three (3) Endorsement Areas

Data can come from many sources: staff observations, related service providers, employers, parent input, present-level statements in the IEP, classroom assessments, work evaluations and/or portfolio evidence.

Competencies are like IEP objectives: the smaller skills that break down what an endorsement means. Any competencies count toward the 50%.

Please Note that students may leave school with no endorsements; achievement depends on their skills and abilities