ACCREDITATION PROGRAM GUIDELINES

Transcription

1 FOR Initial Accreditation Annual Accreditation Status and Progress Report Five-Year Accreditation Renewal ACCREDITATION PROGRAM GUIDELINES FLOCS is a member of: Florida Association of Academic Non-Public Schools 5625 Holy Trinity Dr. Melbourne, FL International League of Christian Schools Florida League of Christian Schools 1437 E. Memorial Boulevard Lakeland, Florida Extension Fax 1/1/2011

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3 Table of Contents ILCS/FLOCS Accreditation Process... 4 Purpose... 5 Levels of Accreditation... 5 Procedure to Apply For Initial Five-Year Accreditation... 6 Accreditation Eligibility Checklist... 7 Visiting Committee... 8 Purpose and Objectives... 8 Visiting Committee Chairperson and Members... 8 Visiting Committee Chairperson and Members Expenses... 9 Length Of Accreditation... 9 Annual Accreditation Status and Progress Report (ASPR)... 9 Fifth-Year Re-Evaluation of Accreditation Appeal and Complaint Procedures Accreditation Standards For K-12 Schools STAFF QUALIFICATIONS Suggestions for Preparation of Self Study

4 ILCS/FLOCS Accreditation Process Membership Accreditation is only open to ILCS/FLOCS members. To become a member of ILCS/FLOCS, please contact the ILCS/FLOCS offices, or visit the website at Apply The accreditation application is found in the appendix of this document. The application must be received with payment to be considered for accreditation. Chair Assigned ILCS/FLOCS will assign an accreditation chair whom will assist you throught the self-study process. The team chair will be someone other than the center's assigned inspector. Self-Study Completed After reviewing the last two inspections, the chair will help you begin the self-study, a thorough selfevaluation of your school based upon the standards of accreditation. Site Visit Conducted Your team chair will conduct a two day visit to your school with an addition one or two team members, depending upon the size of your center. Your center is responsible for all expenses pertaining to the visit. Please see the Visiting Committee Guidelines for details of the visit. Accreditation Report Completed Your Chair will complete a detailed report of all of the teams findings and submit it to the ILCS/FLOCS office. ILCS/FLOCS will forward the report to the state accreditation commission for review. The review period is typically seven days. Accreditation Determination Based upon satisfactory compliance with the standards of accreditation, the board will grant accreditation for a period of five years. It is possible that a center does not meet the standards of accreditation, at which time the chair will assist the school in understanding the deficiencies as well as assisting the center in correcting them. 4

5 These guidelines are designed to guide member childcare centers through the ILCS/FLOCS Accreditation Program. Information is provided to help you understand the set of standards and the evaluative process that is in place to help verify a member school's commitment to its constituency and others that it is carrying out its Christian purpose. This manual will help schools complete the Initial Accreditation Application and prepare the self-study, file the Annual Accreditation Status and Progress Report and Survey (ASPR), and complete the Fifth-Year Re-evaluation Accreditation Renewal. The ILCS/FLOCS Accreditation Commission is the recognized accrediting body for member schools. The Commission is the representative body charged with carrying out the accreditation process. The Chairperson of the Commission provides direction for the accreditation program. Final review of the accreditation program and policies is made by the Commission, which then makes recommendations to the ILCS/FLOCS Executive Board for final approval. The Accreditation Program is designed to meet or exceed the minimum standards recognized by the major Christian School Accrediting Associations. It is important for all member schools to strive to be accredited. Only member schools may apply for accreditation. The initial process takes about one year. Accreditation is an ongoing process promoting excellence in Christian school education. Purpose The purpose of the Accreditation Program is to establish high, uniform standards among ILCS/FLOCS member schools. Achievement of accreditation status represents a standard of excellence which is recognized by other institutions and the constituency of the community in which the school is located. Accreditation requirements identify educational and spiritual criteria which establish high expectations for childcare centers. Parents seek accredited schools because they believe such schools offer a quality program. Likewise, the larger community of business and higher education value the standard of excellence established by school accreditation. To become accredited, a school will complete a self-study evaluation and open their school to an on-site visit by a qualified team of educators who will visit a school and examine its program to determine whether it is being operated within the published guidelines of the accrediting agency. ILCS/FLOCS standards are similar to those of other recognized educational accrediting agencies and are designed to meet or exceed the minimum standards for accrediting associations, including FAANS, and NCPSA. Levels of Accreditation In the accreditation process, a school progresses from Applicant to Candidacy to Accreditation. A school may remain in Applicant status or Candidacy status for a maximum of 2 years after being accepted by the Accreditation Commission. If significant progress is not made toward accreditation within this 2 year timeframe, a school will be dropped from the accreditation process. At the end of this 2 year timeframe, a school must submit a new application and pay an additional $450 application fee. Applicant Status: A school is in Applicant status from the time an official application is filed with the Executive Director until all items have been received and accepted by the Accreditation Commission. A school at this stage of accreditation may only refer to themselves as being an Applicant with ILCS/FLOCS. Candidacy Status: Once a school's application and accompanying documentation have been received and accepted by the Accreditation Commission, the school will be advanced to Candidacy status and assigned a 5

6 chairperson as an advisor. After the school receives their formal notice that their application has been accepted, they may refer to themselves as having Candidacy status with ILCS/FLOCS. Accreditation: Upon completion of the on-site visit, the visiting team will submit a report and recommendation to the Accreditation Commission. The Accreditation Commission then makes a status report to the Executive Board. Accreditation may be granted by the Executive Board for a maximum of five years. A school may refer to themselves as Accredited by ILCS/FLOCS upon receipt of notice of approval by the Executive Board. Revocation of Accreditation: A school may be dropped from accreditation for failing to maintain compliance with the standards or for failing to file an Information and Annual Report. A school must first be notified by the Executive Director of the reasons for the pending revocation by certified mail. A school so notified has the right to a hearing before the Executive Board. The decision of the Executive Board shall be final. The school will be notified of board action by certified mail. Upon receipt of said notification, the school must immediately stop referring to itself as an ILCS/FLOCS accredited school (See page 17 for Appeal and Complaint Procedures.) Procedure to Apply For Initial Five-Year Accreditation A school wishing to become accredited may request the accreditation program information by visiting the ILCS website at or the FLOCS website at or by contacting: ILCS/FLOCS Executive Director P. O. Box Lakeland, FL Phone (863) , ext. 251 Guidelines and forms will be forwarded to the school. After a school submits its initial application for accreditation, a chairperson will be appointed. An initial on-site visit to the school may take place by the chairperson if the last two inspections accumulated more than 15 points in violations. The purpose of this initial visit is to verify that the applicant school has met all of the initial requirements listed in the Eligibility Checklist. At the time of this visit, the applicant school must be prepared to provide documentation that will verify that all eligibility requirements have been met. The applicant school is responsible to pay all expenses associated with this initial campus visit. The chairperson will file a Preliminary Site Visit Report to be included with the school's application. The school should be prepared to demonstrate to the chair that the school meets all of the requirements in the Eligibility Checklist. A school's application for accreditation will not be considered by the Accreditation Commission until this visit and report are completed. When a school seeking initial accreditation has its application processed and accepted by the Accreditation Commission, a contact/chairperson is appointed to assist the school in understanding the accreditation guidelines and completing the forms for the self-evaluation study. After the forms have been filled out completely and returned, a chairperson and a visiting committee will be appointed. A school has a maximum of two years from the time the application is filed to complete this visit and a report. If this is not completed within two years, the school must file a new application, including fees, and begin the process again. The school is responsible for the travel expenses of the advisor related to this visit. The following Accreditation Eligibility Checklist identifies areas that must be met for schools seeking accreditation. 6

7 Accreditation Eligibility Checklist The school must demonstrate through written policy and produce evidence in the form of an artifact that the school: Is a current member of ILCS/FLOCS. Has legal authority to operate Has a concise, clearly written statement of its philosophy and objectives in order to guide the academic program and the overall development of its students. Has a curriculum consistent with its philosophy and objectives. This shall be designed to effectively fill the needs of the students enrolled. Curriculum offered shall be organized sequentially and described in current written curriculum guides and courses of study by subject and grade level. Has a physical facility that is suited to the purpose and adequate for the total program of each school. Evidence of conformity to local codes for school building and health, safety, and sanitation must be present. Employs faculty and administrative staff that meet criteria established by the accrediting body which are suitable to the program and mission of the school. The criteria must address the requirements of degrees and/or certification. Ensure the maintenance and safe-keeping of accurate student records and the provision of a transcript indicating work covered by students. Be financially resourced and managed as to sustain an educational program consistent with its philosophy and objectives. Evidence of financial stability in the form of a financial statement shall be prepared annually and be available for review by the Accreditation Association during evaluations. Issues statements of nondiscrimination (in writing) stating that they do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin. Complies with all applicable state laws and regulations. Is under control of a governing body, duly empowered with its governance, and meeting all state legal requirements. Is administered by a chief administrative officer designated for the school. Has been in operation a minimum of one (1) year. Has written statements of purpose and faith that are not in open opposition with the Statement of Fundamental Truths of the Assemblies of God (See Appendix.). Must send representatives to at least one ILCS/FLOCS approved conference each year. An artifact of evidence would be a physical or tangible document that demonstrates compliance. For example, complies with all applicable state laws and regulations may be proofed by supplying a current fire inspection, health inspection, affidavit of good moral character, and all other state regulatory compliance forms. Any questions or concern can be directed to the chairperson, or the ILCS/FLOCS office. 7

8 Visiting Committee This visiting committee will consist of at least three or more people who have current education experience. This may include school administrator, college faculty, or a teacher with classroom experience who holds a bachelor s degree or higher. The inspector is always considered a member of the visiting committee. The committee chairperson will guide the school through the accreditation process. Chairperson responsibilities include the following: 1. Communication with the school administrator regarding ILCS/FLOCS accreditation standards. 2. Identification of areas needing improvement prior to the visit. 3. Setting a date for the committee's on-site visit. This should be a visit which includes attending a worship service (usually Sunday) and two instructional days. 4. Coordination of the Visiting Committee's activities. 5. Responsibility for the final written report. The Visiting Committee members shall each receive a copy of the self-study at least one month before the on-site visit. If the self-study is not received at least 30 days prior to the visit date, the team visit will be rescheduled. All classes, programs, and records should be open to the committee. Committee members will talk with the pastor, administrator, teachers, staff, and students during the visit. Preliminary results of the evaluation will be given to the administration on the day of the evaluation. Detailed results will be provided in writing by the chairperson of the committee. Any reported deficiencies must be corrected before accreditation is granted. Purpose and Objectives 1. The primary purpose of the Visiting Committee's visit is a fact-finding and discovery to verify the school's self-study and to determine if it accurately reflects the school's programs and ministry. The visiting committee serves a key role in the accreditation process and in the assessment and improvement of the school. 2. The objectives of the accreditation visit include the following: a. Providing for the ILCS/FLOCS Accreditation Commission a final report that addresses every aspect of a school's program, assuring that the school's self-study is objective and accurate and that it reflects the school strengths; b. Having a Visiting Committee that brings objective expertise to the school to assist in conducting the evaluation. This provides insight that can lead to school improvement and future planning c. Serving as a stimulus for reviewing and/or changing those areas of the school's operation that are not in compliance with ILCS/FLOCS Standards; d. To determine that the school has no violations of ILCS/FLOCS Standards. Visiting Committee Chairperson and Members 1. The chairperson shall have served on a previous visiting committee on-site visit and have experience as a school administrator, principal, assistant principal, or college education department director/faculty member. Workshops are provided at ILCS/FLOCS Conferences to train perspective team chairs. 2. The selection of the Visiting Committee chairperson is the responsibility of the Director of Accreditation and/or the Executive Director. A list of qualified persons shall not include an individual deemed to have a conflict of interest as defined in the ILCS or FLOCS Bylaws, and including but not limited to an employee of the applying institution, a relative of an employee or church member. The school personnel may veto a suggested appointment if they feel a bias exists. 8

9 3. The Visiting Committee will consist of a chairperson and at least two committee members. Additional committee members may be added by the Director of Accreditation after consultation with the Executive Director, the Visiting Committee chairperson, and other appropriate personnel, such as the school administrator or pastor. 4. The final selection of the Visiting Committee members is the responsibility of the Director of Accreditation with input from the Executive Director. When possible, the Visiting Committee members are chosen from the same region or state in which the school to be visited is located. 5. The selected Visiting Committee members are chosen to provide balance and competence to the evaluation. Their professional background and expertise shall include the areas of teaching, programs, curriculum, administration, finance, facilities, and community relations. 6. No Visiting Committee chairperson or members shall serve without receiving training in the ILCS/FLOCS Standards and accreditation process. This training is provided at all ILCS/FLOCS conferences and may be provided prior to the visit by the team chair. 7. The administrator/principal of the school to be visited will be given the names of the visiting committee members by the Director of Accreditation at least 30 days before the visit. 8. Any changes in Visiting Committee members or dates of the visit must be made with the Director of Accreditation through the office of the Executive Director. No one shall be contacted for participation on a team by the administrator/director of the school without prior approval of the Director of Accreditation through the office of the Executive Director. Visiting Committee Chairperson and Members Expenses 1. All Visiting Committee member expenses (lodging, meals, travel) incurred during the visit are to be borne by the school being visited. When possible, the school should make arrangements to pay directly to the motel/ hotel the meals/lodging costs incurred by the visiting team. 2. The mileage for travel while on business for ILCS/FLOCS is the current rate allowed by the Internal Revenue Service. Other possible travel costs include parking, taxi, tolls, travel other than by automobile, etc. 3. Any costs for meals incurred by a Visiting Committee member en-route and any costs for meals during the visitation should be reimbursed by the school. All expenses should be indicated on the expense form. The expense form should be submitted directly to the administrator/principal of the school visited for reimbursement. 4. The Visiting Committee chairperson is to be paid a fee of $ (included in the initial application fee) for preparing/compiling the committee report. The check will be issued by the Executive Director when the final team report is received. Length Of Accreditation Initial and fifth-year re-evaluation accreditation is for a maximum period of five (5) years. Annual Accreditation Status and Progress Report (ASPR) All accredited schools are required to submit a completed annual report (See Appendix A) by August 31 each year along with the annual accreditation renewal fee of $ to the Florida office of ILCS/FLOCS. 9

10 Fifth-Year Re-Evaluation of Accreditation A school planning to apply for fifth-year re-evaluation accreditation must complete the Application for Renewal of Accreditation and a new self-study. The re-evaluation process follows the same process as the initial accreditation with one exception. Items that were noted as recommendations in the previous accreditation will be specifically monitored and must have been met at this time. An onsite team visit will also take place following the same procedures as in the initial accreditation visit (See pages 10 & 11.). Appeal and Complaint Procedures Appeals and complaints are handled on a case by case approach. Each case is reviewed and action taken with the full involvement of the individuals, school, and sponsoring church, as well as members of the ILCS/FLOCS Accreditation Commission. The accreditation program process is designed to go forward only when a school meets the requirements for accreditation. It continues based on the school's annual report being submitted by August 31 each year and reviewed by the ILCS/FLOCS Accreditation Commission. Schools are advised in writing by certified mail of any specific violations of standards. This advised status does not preclude continued accreditation unless violations are recurring and not corrected by the school. The school must respond by the next regular or special called board meeting. A school's accreditation may be withdrawn only by action of the ILCS/FLOCS Accreditation Commission. This action includes the process of a representative of the commission visiting the school and submitting a review/report concerning the recurring and not corrected violations by the school. In cases when accreditation has had to be withheld or withdrawn, every effort is made to have an ongoing and open communication to correct the situation. All appeals from any decision made shall be submitted in writing to the ILCS/FLOCS Accreditation Commission. An appeal should review specifically the appellant's position in regard to each item of the decision. An appeal of an unfavorable decision concerning a school's accreditation status or complaint may be made to the Executive Board of ILCS/FLOCS at the next scheduled meeting after the decision was made. A school suspended or not accredited for failure to meet standards may be re-evaluated in the next year if efforts to rectify deficiencies are evident. When complaints are filed, those involved are encouraged, if possible, to resolve the complaints. If the school or person filing the complaint does not feel that it has been resolved, the Executive Director's office should be contacted for input and/or mediation. If necessary, the complaint will be referred to the Accreditation Commission. Issues or concerns can be brought by an ILCS/FLOCS member school before the scheduled Association meeting. 10

11 Accreditation Standards For K-12 Schools Initial Accreditation/Fifth-Year Re-evaluation Accreditation Guidelines The school should organize itself in such a manner as to adequately address each of the following standards utilizing a self-study process. The end result should be a document which demonstrates, through the provision of evidence, how the school meets each of the accreditation standards and any sub-points contained therein. 1. Philosophy, Governance, and Administration 1.1. Foundational Documents The school shall have a statement of faith that is not in conflict with that of ILCS/FLOCS The school shall have a written and well-defined statement of educational philosophy The school shall have a written and well-defined mission statement The school shall have a written statement of non-discrimination The school shall have a constitution and bylaws, or operate under the constitution and bylaws of a local church or congregation The school must have organizational goals/objectives in spiritual, academic, and developmental disciplines Governance The school shall be governed by a board, or some other body that maintains fiduciary responsibility for the school The governing body shall be spiritual leaders of the school or local community The governing board shall oversee the formulation and development of policies and maintain an official record of all policies and procedures The governing body shall maintain a complete record of all board meeting minutes The governing board is responsible for the selection and formal evaluation of the school administrator Administration The school shall comply with all federal, state, and local regulations that pertain to the operation of a private school. The school files appropriate government reporting forms annually (IRS 5378) The school maintains appropriate government forms for employees (W-2, I-9) The school shall have a Long-Range Strategic Plan that is realistic, prioritized, and reviewed for progress and updates. 2. Organization and Finances 2.1. The school must be a religious exempt agency for the purpose of education, or the school must be under the control of a local church ministry Christian Culture The school develops a distinct Christian culture: Evident in employee to employee policy and interaction Evident in employee to student policy and interaction 11

12 Evident in student to student policy and interaction Policies and practices are reflective of biblical principles in all areas Finances Planning The administration develops a realistic and balanced budget. The budget is developed in collaboration with the governing body. Benefits are reviewed and offered within the means of the budget. The administration provides for appropriate salary and benefits for all faculty and staff Managing The governing body ensures successful financial management of the school. The school shall demonstrate a sound budgeting process by showing evidence of responsible fiscal management over the past three years. The school provides formal financial reviews and reporting at least annually Receivables Tuition and Fees o The school publishes a tuition and fee schedule that is available to parents and staff. o The school publishes a tuition and fee refund policy. The school has polices and procedures for receiving money that are ethical, reflects the highest sense of accountability and control, and are in compliance with generally accepted accounting practice. The school clearly identifies all sources of revenue, including fundraising and development Payables The school clearly identifies all expenses through appropriate reporting The school has policies and procedures for the disbursement of monies that are ethical, reflect the highest sense of accountability and control, and are in compliance with generally accepted accounting practices. Salaries are adequate and in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. The school maintains clearly identifiable records for disbursements. 3. Curriculum and Instruction 3.1. Spiritual Development The school shall define its role in the Christian community and the scope of its spiritual ministry (i.e. discipleship, evangelism. Etc ) Bible shall be taught as a subject in each grade/age level for a minimum of 150 minutes each week (may include a formal chapel time) The school shall have a means, formal or informal, of assessing the spiritual needs of its school community The school shall provide for the memorization of the Holy Bible Curriculum and Instruction Curriculum Implementation The curriculum shall address the needs of students as spiritual beings as well as cognitive learners. o The school integrates a biblical worldview in all subject areas. o At a minimum, curriculum must addresses language, reading, writing, mathematics, social sciences, physical sciences, and physical education. o If a secondary school, foreign language, fine arts, and computer instruction must be addressed. o If a secondary school, graduation requirements must be clearly defined. Technology 12

13 o The school has included educational and instructional technology in its long-term strategic plan. o The technology resources staff is sufficient and appropriately qualified to provide effective service to students and staff. o Technology resources are appropriately maintained and supported annually with funding from the school s budget. o Adequate skills training on the use of technology resources and equipment is provided to the staff and students. o The school implements written policies and procedures for acceptable use of technology. The school shall provide, for each subject and each grade level, curriculum guides, a scope and sequence, and other curriculum planning documents (curricular frameworks, curriculum maps, curriculum pacing guides, etc ) that are unique to the cultural values of the school community. The school shall conduct classes on at least 180 days of the school year, or the minimum required by law to include: o At least 720 hours for kindergarten o At least 900 hours for grades 1 7 o At least 1080 hours for grades Instructional Methodology The school shall implement a biblical pedagogy in all instructional areas. The school shall ensure that teachers utilize a variety of instructional experiences in order the address the diversity of learners that the school serves. Where applicable, the school extends the learning experience through community resources. The school shall provide teacher planning time sufficient for developing a quality educational environment. The school shall employee sufficient number of teachers so as to maintain student-to-teacher ratios appropriate to the academic program offered. Non-Traditional Instruction o If offered, ESE services must be defined as to type of students/exceptionalities served and program(s) offered. o If online instruction is accepted or used as a curriculum source, the school must define the o supervisor, and frequency of supervision. If hospital/homebound services are provided, services and supervision must be defined for these programs as well Evaluation The school shall systematically evaluate the effectiveness and relevance of curriculum, not to exceed a five-year cycle. o The school shall formally assess the effectiveness of its academic programs through to include standardized (norm-referenced or criterion-referenced) testing. o The school will utilize test data to modify and improve instruction. Professional Development Standards o The administrator shall be responsible for, in addition to other administrative duties, the implementation of an annual teacher and staff evaluation plan. o The administrator shall be responsible for, in addition to other administrative duties, the implementation of an annual staff and faculty professional development plan. 4. Personnel 4.1. Faculty The school shall provide evidence that each employee professes to a be Christian Each teacher must undergo background screening as provided for in state law Must hold a bachelor s degree and be substantially qualified for the position for which they were hired. 13

14 Shall hold a current teaching credential from the International League of Christian Schools, or Florida League of Christian Schools, a valid teaching certificate from any state, or a Letter of Credential Acceptance for a credential held in another agency not listed. Letters of Credential Acceptance must be acquired prior to the site visit, and may be obtained by writing a letter to the ILCS/FLOCS Board requesting such the Letter of Credential Acceptance, accompanied by the teacher s transcripts, a list of professional experience, as well as copies of teacher certificates held in other agencies Must show continued professional growth through periodic, and effective teacher evaluations Employee files are maintained for every employed teacher. Files are organized in a systematic and professional manner. Files contain ALL documents to attest to the above requirements. Files contain copies of signed contracts, current W-4, I-9, and other legal documents required for employment Non-Teaching Staff The school shall provide evidence that each employee professes to a Christian Each employee must undergo background screening as provided for in state law Must hold appropriate degrees or professional training, and be substantially qualified for the position for which they were hired Must show continued professional growth through periodic, and an effective employee evaluation process The school employs sufficient number of support staff to meet the demands of the overall program Employee files are maintained for every staff member employed. Files are organized in a systematic and professional manner. Files contain ALL documents to attest to the above requirements. Files contain copies of signed contracts if applicable, current W-4, I-9, and other legal documents required for employment Administration The school shall have at least one full-time employee appointed by the governing body that serves exclusively as the chief administrative officer for the school. The administrator must hold a minimum of a bachelor s of art degree from an accredited university or college Must hold appropriate degrees or professional training, and be substantially qualified for the position for which they were hired Must show continued professional growth through periodic, and an effective employee evaluation process The school employs sufficient number of administrators to meet the demands of the overall program Employee files are maintained for every administrator employed. Files are organized in a systematic and professional manner. Files contain ALL documents to attest to the above requirements. Files contain copies of signed contracts (if applicable), employee evaluations, documentation of necessary qualifications, current W-4, I-9, and other legal documents required for employment The school administrator or designee is responsible for maintaining minutes for each faculty meeting that is held periodically through the school year. 5. Students and Student Services 5.1. Student Records 14

15 A cumulative student file shall be kept on every student enrolled in the school as well as for former students All files must be systematically organized, maintained regularly and must be up to date Current Student files must contain at a minimum: Student Enrollment Application; Parent agreements; Prior academic record for transfers; Current academic records; Health records as required by law; Copy of Birth Certificate; Discipline records; Attendance records All records shall be maintained in a lockable, fire-proof file cabinet The school must have a policy for the permanent maintenance of school records, should the school cease to exist The school must have a policy regulating access to student records, recognizing both public access as well as privacy laws governed by the state in which the school resides Library and Media Services A school must provide relevant age- and developmentally-appropriate print material, media, software, and access to supplemental literature, as well as learning and cultural material not directly addressed in curriculum sufficient to the needs of the student body All supplemental material shall be systematically catalogued for staff, student, and community access All supplemental material shall be periodically reviewed for relevancy and currency A school shall avail itself of community resources to augment the student learning experience where applicable Library resources are funded annually through the school s budget The school shall have a written policy defining the process whereby literature and media are evaluated and selected for student use Student Curricular and Non-curricular Activities Scope and Oversight Student activities must fit into the overall mission and philosophy of the school. Student activities should have objectives and purpose for students. A variety of activities should be offered that address the varying needs, interests, skills, and proficiencies of students and the overall school community. All activities must be regulated and governed by school administration and must be a direct service provided by the school. All activities are supervised by an authorized adult Staffing and Funding Student Activities staff must conform to the spiritual culture of the school. Student activities staff must be Christian in both profession of faith and practice of faith. Student activities staff must submit to appropriate background checks as regulated by state law. Student activities must be funded adequately. Student activities income and expenses should be easily identified in the financial records. 6. Campus, Facilities, Safety and Health 15

16 6.1. Campus The campus shall be of sufficient size to support the mission and focus of the school The campus must be maintained in a safe and secure manner. Student drop-off and pick-up procedures are clearly identified and followed. Storage areas, easements, equipment, and other areas of concern are not readily accessible to students. Traffic flow on the campus is managed safely. Exterior play areas, fields, and common areas are designed to restrict access from outsiders Facilities The school facilities are sufficient and size and layout to address the learning and physical needs of the students The facilities are not in disrepair The facilities appear to be clean, freshly painted, functional, and attractive The facilities house sufficient desks, shelves, and storage to meet the needs of the student body and staff The school facilities provide classrooms sufficient in size and number to accommodate the need of the learning environment The school facilities provide sufficient office space to conduct the business of the school Food Services Food service areas are sufficient in size to accommodate the preparation and service of meals (generally, 12 square feet per daily meal served). Food service areas have been inspected by appropriate local authority Safety and Health The school has a Crisis Management Plan or equivalent The school conducts fire drills, emergency drills, tornado drills, and other disaster drills in compliance with state law. 7. Publications and Community 7.1. The school has clearly defined enrollment or admission policy, mission, and statement of nondiscrimination that comply with requirements as established by state, Federal law or Administrative Rule Parent Handbook The school provides a handbook of policies and procedures to parents that contain at least the following: The school s statement of educational philosophy; Admission or enrollment policies that appropriately identify those students for whom the academic program was designed; Behavioral expectation and disciplinary procedures and measures; Policies regarding holidays, illnesses, hours of operation, fees and financial obligations, refunds, enrollment, and termination procedures; Explanation of daily procedures which parents must follow The school must have a signed statement that parents acknowledge receipt, understanding, and agreement to the school s policy and procedures Staff and Faculty Handbook 16

17 The school provides a handbook of policies and procedures to all staff and faculty that contain at least the following: The school s statement of educational philosophy; Staff and faculty expectations to include: o Dress codes; o Sexual harassment; o School s student disciplinary procedures; o School s faculty and staff disciplinary procedures; o Grading procedures and expectations; o Staff and faculty evaluation procedures; Policies regarding holidays, illnesses, hours of operation, and termination procedures, and a threestep grievance procedure; Explanation of daily procedures which staff and faculty must follow The school shall annually instruct the staff and faculty regarding the school s employee policies The school must have a signed statement that faculty and staff acknowledge receipt of, understand, and agree to the school s policy and procedures Communication General Parent Communications. Administrators and staff maintain periodic communication with parents utilizing a variety of verbal, print, and electronic means Student Progress. The school provides conference opportunity with parents at least twice per year and at other times as needed to discuss the child s developmental and academic progress Academic Reporting. The school shall report student academic progress formally and periodically, no less than three times each year Significant Changes in Behavior and Suspected Abuse. The school must have a policy and procedure for documenting significant changes in a child s pattern of behavior and/or physical condition, how they are reported to parents and documented. Additionally, schools must have a policy and procedures for documenting and reporting child abuse. All child abuse reporting must comply with state and local laws and regulations Parent Support Services The school is prepared to refer parents to available community services and resources regarding children with specific needs. School administration should seek to work collaboratively with community agencies in providing information as needed. 17

18 Appendix OFFICES OF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR INTERNATIONAL LEAGUE OF CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS FLORIDA LEAGUE OF CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS P. O. BOX LAKELAND, FL

19 Staff Qualifications Staff Member (initials only) Job Title Years of Experience Employment Date BA/BS/MS Degree? State Certification? Other Certificatin?

20 Suggestions for Preparation of Self Study Schools applying for accreditation are responsible for demonstrating compliance with the ILCS/FLOCS Accreditation Standards. The most effective way to do this is to explain in a narrative format the manner in which the school meets each individual standard. This also gives the school the opportunity to use the self-study as an instrument for school improvement. The narrative explanation should be supported by appropriate, well-organized documentation. The self-study notebook should consist of a durable cover with sufficient space to hold the narrative and the documentation. "D" ring, loose leaf notebooks are preferred. Copies of the completed self-study are to be mailed at least 30 days prior to the team visit to the Visiting Committee chairperson, each Visiting Committee member, and the ILCS/FLOCS office. The self-study document should be organized as follows: Title Page Name of school Name of sponsoring church Address of school Telephone number, Fax number, and Contact Person, Title Purpose of the petition, i.e. to request initial approval or renewal of accreditation Narrative Organize on a standard-by-standard basis, quoting both the standard number and the standard followed by a detailed explanation of how the school meets the standard. Refer to documentation of explanation by exhibit number and page. Quote the document in the narrative where appropriate. Explanations which simply restate the standard will not be accepted. Organization of the Self-Study Title Page Brief history and overview of the school. The purpose of this is to provide the team with background information about the school prior to their arrival on your campus. Narrative which addresses each standard (See Narrative above.). Documentation. This should include copies of documents referenced in the narrative. This might include student and faculty handbooks, curriculum guides, school calendar, etc. Other Considerations There should be a table of contents. Pages of the narrative must be numbered. Tabs showing the locations of items listed in the table of contents are useful. Self-studies must be bound in some fashion. "D" ring, loose-leaf notebooks are preferred.