PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — The Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS) recently recognized Saint Francis Preparatory School in Fresh Meadows, NY, for Programs of Distinction in Visual Arts and School Counseling.
The Middle States Programs of Distinction initiative provides external validation of an accredited school’s accomplishments in specific areas of expertise and enables schools to take accreditation to the next level.
“Programs of Distinction are models for other academic programs throughout the world,” said Henry G. Cram, Ed.D., president of MSA-CESS. “I congratulate Saint Francis Prep for its commitment to a robust visual arts program and for recognizing the important role school counseling plays in overall student growth and achievement.”
The Programs of Distinction review process helps already accredited schools identify strengths and areas for growth and provides inspiration and recommendations for attaining a high quality program.
MSA accredited schools are eligible to apply for Program of Distinction recognition for outstanding programs in 21st Century Skills, Global Literacies, World Languages, Visual Arts, Music, Early Childhood Education, Service Learning, School Counseling and STEM Education.
The Visual Arts Program of Distinction identifies programs of superior quality that are clearly articulated and comprehensive, led by qualified and talented instructors using research-based instructional techniques and strategies, and that allow all students to develop an appreciation for and an understanding of the visual arts as a valuable and expressive fine art form.
The School Counseling Program of Distinction recognizes schools with a comprehensive and coherent school counseling program that features counselors who advocate for ensuring equity in student access to all the school’s educational opportunities.
“Recognition from the Middle States Association is an honor and is a validation of the work we do here at Saint Francis Preparatory School to educate the whole person,” said Principal Patrick McLaughlin. “We strive to provide a learning environment that enables all students to develop and broaden their spiritual, intellectual, creative, emotional, social, and physical abilities.”
About Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS)
Based in Philadelphia, the Middle States Association is a worldwide leader in accreditation and school improvement. For over 125 years, Middle States has been helping school leaders establish and reach their goals, develop strategic plans, promote staff development and advance student achievement. With more than 2,700 accredited schools and school systems in 34 states and nearly 100 countries, MSA-CESS is proud of its continuing legacy and its ongoing innovations to meet the challenges of improving education in the 21st century. For more information visit www.msa-cess.com.