The EWSD is pleased to report that the Commission on Public Schools of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) has granted Essex High School continued accreditation.
The NEASC report highlights the strong collaboration among Essex High School’s teachers, the depth and quality of the curriculum, the staff’s commitment to supporting students’ social-emotional well-being, and the effectiveness of the school’s leadership.
The multi-year review went far beyond basic test scores, incorporating thorough document analysis, site visits, classroom observations, and interviews with teachers, families, and both school and district leaders. This is a significant accomplishment that deserves to be celebrated throughout the entire community.
“We are incredibly proud to receive continued accreditation from NEASC - a recognition that speaks volumes about the hard work, professionalism, and dedication of our entire staff,” said EHS Principal Donald Van Nostrand. “This accomplishment reflects not only our educators’ commitment to academic excellence and student well-being but also the strong partnership we share with our students and families. Essex High School is a truly special place, and this milestone belongs to our whole community. Thank you to everyone who plays a role in making EHS the exceptional learning environment it is every day.”
Accreditation is not a single event, but rather an ongoing, voluntary cycle of comprehensive internal and external assessments, short and long-term strategic planning, and periodic reporting sustained by professional partnership and support. Member schools must periodically demonstrate continued alignment with NEASC standards in order to maintain their NEASC accreditation and membership.
It is intended to serve as a framework for schools to meet their own unique goals for student learning while maintaining alignment with research-based standards for accreditation that define the characteristics of high-quality, effective learning communities. It also serves to assess the systems in place for ongoing institutional self-reflection and a school’s commitment to and capacity for continuous growth and/or transformation.
NEASC partners with schools around the world to assess, support, and promote high-quality education for all students. Founded in 1885, NEASC has a long tradition and proven reputation for quality assurance in education. Focusing on levels PK to grade 12, NEASC provides a relevant, future-forward framework for meaningful, ongoing, whole school improvement through accreditation, professional assistance, and the pursuit of best practices. A globally recognized standard of excellence, NEASC Accreditation attests to a school’s high quality and integrity.