Brighten Academy Earns SACS Accreditation

Close on the heels of the recent Douglas County School System Accreditation, Brighten Academy has been recommended by AdvancED for independent SACS/CASI accreditation. Lisa McDonald, Brighten’s Director stated, “We felt that independent accreditation from the district was important. We wanted to demonstrate our effectiveness in operating autonomously, which is a hallmark of charter schools. We are so proud of the recommendation and the accolades the committee bestowed on us as a learning community.”
Accreditation standards for quality schools are based on 7 key areas; vision and purpose governance and leadership, teaching and learning, documenting and using results, resources and support systems, stakeholder communications and relationships, and commitment to continuous improvement. Based on interviews of 90 stakeholders, examined artifacts, observed practices in the learning environment, data, and analysis and deliberation, Brighten achieved the highest ranking (Highly Functional) in 4 out of the 7 areas and the second highest ranking (Operational) in the remaining 3.

The accreditation committee provided specific commendations on the school’s articulation of mission and vision to all stakeholders, continuous feedback related to student and school improvement, the school’s warm, welcome, safe and secure environment, and outstanding leadership.

“The accreditation recommendation for approval and the commendations we received truly validate all of the hard work and shared commitment of the students, parents, staff, leadership, and board,” said Doug Bailey, Brighten’s Governing Board Chair, “We are doing great things for kids and are glad to be a part of the Douglas County community.” Accreditation will be approved formally at the next State Council meeting in June.