International school communities have long recognized the Accreditation Process as a highly effective means of initiating and maintaining school improvement as well as adhering to academic standards and best practices in international education.
The benefits are numerous and extremely valuable for progressive schools. Some of the most important are:
- The award of accreditation itself. The school’s own claim to excellence is verified by a respected accrediting agency.
- The opportunity for self-assessment and opportunity for all members of the community to be involved in the self-evaluation process.
- The opportunity for improved intra-school contact and understanding.
- Unifying forces in a school community.
- The opportunity to receive an external assessment. Objective evaluation of fellow professionals.
- Availability of resources for Professional Development Services, College Counseling, Governance, and Administrative Services.
New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
The New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) provides accreditation services for more than 2,000 public and private institutions in the six state region – Pre-K through university. NEASC accreditation uses self-reflection, peer review and best practices as integral components of its assessment process and monitors the follow-up endeavors leading to continuous school program improvement. NEASC consists of six Commissions, each of which sets the standards for a particular segment of the educational community.
Ministry of Education of the Dominican Republic (MINERD)
The Ministry of Education of the Dominican Republic (MINERD) regulates the Dominican education system, guaranteeing the right of all Dominicans to an education of high standards.
The 4’2000 Ordinance (Regulation of Private Educational Institutions) regulates the correct management of all private schools. Schools are labeled as “recognized” or “accredited” according to levels of compliance and adherence to specific requirements such as campus, equipment, teaching and administrative quality of staff, among others.
As a private monolingual institution we are required by MINERD to impart Spanish Language and Literature, Spanish Social Studies and Ethics using the content contained in their established program.
Council of International Schools (CIS)
The Council of International Schools is the premier organization in International Education for the accreditation of schools and Best Practice development. CIS is a not-for-profit organization of a truly worldwide international educational community comprising over 711 member schools and 512 colleges/universities.
The central purpose of CIS is to enable member organizations to achieve and deliver the highest standards in International Education and continually improve the outcome of student learning.
Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE)
The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is an academically rigorous, internationally used, and specialized English Language curriculum, in grades 9 and 10. Cambridge IGCSE helps improve performance by developing skills in creative thinking, enquiry and problem solving. It is the perfect springboard to the IB Program and admission to prestigious international universities.
International Association for College Admission Counseling (ACAC)
The International Association of College Admissions Counselors (ACAC) was founded in 1991 and represents overseas college counselors. The membership is made up of 2000+ professionals from around the world who advise students as they make choices about pursuing postsecondary education. In addition, counselors can be primary and secondary school counselors, independent counselors, college admission and financial aid officers, enrollment managers, and organizations engaged in guiding students through the secondary to higher education transition process.
Benefits for member school:
- Allows for overseas counselors to discuss issues related to International students
- Participation in Professional Development in Spanish or English Language
- Participation in International conferences
- Networking with International Schools
National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC)
The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) is dedicated to supporting the work of counseling and enrollment professionals as they advance student access to postsecondary education. NACAC is committed to promoting high professional standards that foster ethical and social responsibility. The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), founded in 1937, is an organization of more than 11,000 professionals from around the world dedicated to serving students as they make choices about pursuing postsecondary education.
Benefits for member schools:
- Professional Development opportunities for College Counselors
- Networking with college admission officers
- Constant update of admission process and financial aid opportunities for international students