The Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools announced that the Freehold Regional High School District has earned accreditation.
“The accreditation process examines schools and school systems in a holistic way, supplementing student testing data to provide a more complete measure of performance and chart a strategic and realistic course for continuous school improvement,” said Henry G. Cram, president of the Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools. “At the Middle States Association, we look at the whole school, not just test scores, because we realize that improving outcomes requires a comprehensive approach.”
Accreditation is a multifaceted process that schools and school systems voluntarily use to demonstrate they are meeting a defined set of research-based performance standards, according to a press release. The 12 standards for accreditation are mission; governance and leadership; school improvement planning; finances; facilities; school organization and staff; health and safety; information resources; educational program; assessment and evidence of student learning; student services, and student life and activities.
The accreditation process begins with a self-study that is conducted by the school and school system and requires input from school leaders, teachers, parents and students. Following the self-study, a team of volunteer educators from association member schools conducts an on-site peer review visit to observe school operations and interview various stakeholders, according to the press release.
The visiting team makes its recommendation to the Middle States Association Commissions, which voted to accredit or reaccredit 100 schools and school systems in 11 states, Puerto Rico and seven countries at its biannual meeting in April.
“It is a tremendous honor to be recognized by Middle States for the achievements of our students, teachers and parents throughout the district,” Freehold Regional High School District Superintendent of Schools Charles B. Sampson said. “Accreditation is a valuable measure of our commitment to providing current and future students with an enriching educational experience as we prepare them for the world of opportunities that awaits them after graduation.”
All six high schools in the Freehold Regional High School District were accredited as a system, according to the press release.