The Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools is pleased to announce that Hazleton Area Career Center in Hazleton, Pa., has earned reaccreditation, the gold standard for measuring and advancing school improvement.
“We commend the Hazleton Area Career Center for its commitment to continuous growth and improvement,” Lisa Marie McCauley, Ed.D., president of the Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools. “The Middle States accreditation process validates the school’s good work and recognizes its dedication to providing high-quality educational opportunities that prepare its students for future success.”
Middle States accredits non-degree granting career and technical post-secondary institutions, special purpose schools, supplementary education centers, learning services providers, and distance education institutions.
Middle States accreditation is a multifaceted evaluation process that schools and school systems voluntarily use to demonstrate they are meeting a defined set of research-based performance standards. The 12 Middle States Standards for Accreditation are: mission; governance and leadership; school improvement planning; finances; facilities; school organization and staff; health and safety; educational program; assessment and evidence of student learning; student services; student life and activities, and information resources.
The accreditation process begins with a self-study that is conducted by the school or school system and requires input from school leaders, teachers, parents and students. Following the self-study, a team of volunteer educators from Middle States member schools conducts an on-site peer review visit to observe school operations and interview various stakeholders.
The visiting team makes its recommendation to the Middle States Association Commissions, which voted at its biannual meeting this week to accredit or reaccredit 101 schools and school systems in 12 states as well as Puerto Rico, and 14 other countries. The meeting was held virtually because of the coronavirus.
“The Hazleton Area Career Center is proud to have earned reaccreditation,” said Principal Lori Herman. “Middle States is a valued partner in helping our schools produce empowered, self-directed, and lifelong learners in a changing global economy.”
