Senator Dooner Opposes Proposed Lottery System for Agricultural and Vocational School Admissions

Boston, MA— March 26, 2025— Yesterday, Senator Kelly Dooner (R-Taunton) testified before the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, urging them to reject the proposed lottery system for agricultural and vocational school admissions, warning that it would undermine the hard work and dedication of students seeking specialized education.

"I asked the Board to please not gamble with our students' futures," said Senator Dooner. "This system would eliminate a merit-based admissions process in favor of chance, disregarding the commitment and passion that students bring to these programs."

The proposed lottery system would replace the current process, which considers numerous factors such as academic performance, attendance, and student interest, with a randomized selection method. While proponents argue that a lottery would create more equitable access, opponents—including educators, students, and parents—have raised serious concerns that it would strip vocational and agricultural schools of their ability to select students who are truly committed to their fields of study.

Senator Dooner is a proud graduate of Norfolk County Agricultural High School and credits her time at Norfolk Aggie with shaping her into the person she is today. "Attending Norfolk Aggie gave me the hands-on experience, education, and confidence I needed to succeed," she said. "I know firsthand how life-changing these schools can be for students who may not fit the traditional mold and are passionate about their fields. Admissions should be based on that passion and dedication, not left up to luck."

Senator Dooner has spent the past few weeks engaging with teachers, students, school committee members, and legislators across the political spectrum. She noted that not a single person expressed support for the proposed lottery system, and most were unaware that it was even under consideration.

"The lack of transparency in this process speaks volumes," she said. "Decisions of this magnitude should not be made behind closed doors without meaningful input from those who will be directly affected. 700+ students wrote letters in opposition to this lottery system, that speaks to me."

For schools like Bristol County Agricultural High School, where students undergo specialized training in fields such as veterinary science, environmental conservation, and agricultural mechanics, an admissions lottery would disrupt the selection of students who have demonstrated clear interest and aptitude for these programs.

"Vocational and agricultural education prepares students for critical industries in our state. We should be strengthening and expanding these programs, not dismantling their admissions process,” said Senator Dooner.

Senator Dooner is open to working with the Board, but remains committed to fighting for a transparent, merit-based system and ensuring this children have a voice heard loud and clear.