For Immediate Release:
Philadelphia, PA – August 5, 2025 — The Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS) has announced the launch of a groundbreaking new offering: the Governance Mastery Endorsement, a research-based framework designed to strengthen and transform boards of trustees across schools worldwide.
As a trusted leader in school accreditation for over a century, MSA-CESS is responding to a critical need: while schools work tirelessly to improve student outcomes, many overlook a key lever of success—governance. According to recent findings from ICAISA (2024), 62% of school boards fall short of accreditation standards.
“Strong, sustainable schools require more than visionary leadership—they need boards that understand how to lead strategically and govern effectively,” said Christian Talbot, President of MSA-CESS. “Governance Mastery is our response to that urgent call.”
Unlike traditional one-off board trainings that often fail to create long-term impact, Governance Mastery is not a webinar series or checklist—it’s a cohesive implementation framework. Built independently of a school’s existing accreditation process, this new endorsement provides:
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A research-aligned blueprint for board improvement
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Practical tools for implementation and self-assessment
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Evidence-based indicators to measure board performance over time
“Isolated training does not improve governance. Implementation does.”
Governance Mastery is ideal for independent, international, and charter schools seeking to elevate their board’s impact—whether or not they are currently engaged in MSA’s accreditation process. Participating boards that complete the framework will earn an official Governance Mastery Endorsement, signifying their commitment to high-functioning, ethical, and effective governance.
To learn more and download the full framework, visit: Governance Mastery Endorsement
About MSA-CESS:
The Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools is a global leader in school accreditation and school improvement. Through research-based standards and customized support, MSA-CESS helps educational institutions become future-ready and mission-aligned.
