Natomas High Receives 6-Year WASC Accreditation

BY SAVNEET TAKHAR, NHS INTERN
THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz 

Natomas High School has received a six-year accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

WASC representatives conducted a four-day, in-depth study of the Natomas campus in March. Results of this visit and news of the six-year accreditation were released to school officials last week.

“When people are shopping for schools they want to know that this school is dedicated to all student success,” Principal John Eick said. “A six-year accreditation is an authentication to our strong and clear plans for the future of Natomas.”

According to the report, “Natomas’ self-study and the visiting committee’s report provided compelling evidence that Natomas High is substantially accomplishing its stated purposes and functions identified.”

The report also reads “the school is meeting an acceptable level of quality in accordance with the WASC criteria adopted by the Accrediting Commission.”

“This accreditation will validate our hard work and the integrity of our school’s programs and student transcripts,” said Eick.

WASC evaluation criteria are research-based guidelines of systemic school improvement that address accreditation’s central tenet: a school operates with a clear understanding of its purpose.

The criteria were developed with the assistance of numerous practicing educational leaders and theorists. The criteria help differentiate between effective and ineffective schools.
 
Schools can be accredited for one year, three years or six years.

“Considering that a six-year WASC accreditation is the highest accreditation, this certification is a testimony to the hard work of the students, staff, and the communal stakeholders, despite the hard times,” said Patrick Crean, English Department chair at Natomas High. “It brings to Natomas the title of a trustworthy institution of learning.” 

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