An integral part of remaining a strong education option for the La Porte community includes the accreditation process. Every 5 years, the school is reviewed by the National Lutheran Schools Accreditation (NLSA).
The “NLSA has been accrediting schools in the LCMS since 1987, and accreditation decisions have always been based upon a school’s compliance with national standards for Lutheran schools that reflect the essential qualities that are expected of Lutheran schools.” Meeting these standards are required also for the school to receive the Indiana Choice dollars which both make the school affordable for many students and helps to fund the school.
There are 30 required indicators of success that schools must comply with fully, so there are a lot of volunteers taking part in this process. Volunteers include teachers, church staff and volunteers, parents, and the interim-Principal and School Board. Angie Aquino, the sixth grade teacher, is leading these efforts.
The many volunteers that are working on this accreditation process will be compiling information, as well as rating the school (on a scale of 1-4), based on the evidence and practices currently in place. They will both identify and celebrate the school’s unique strengths and address any concerns that need correcting. If areas of concern arise, the accreditation team will create an action plan to ensure continuous improvement. “The Evidence-based Accreditation (EBA) process allows for the fulfillment of this mission effectively thereby providing a valuable service to Lutheran schools.” The focus areas include: purpose, relationships, governance, professional personnel, student services, teaching and learning, and facilities.
Although this process adds to the workload of many teachers, it is wonderful to see so many step forward to assist in ensuring a strong future for St. John’s and to have this opportunity to highlight the school’s strengths.
Quotes are taken from https://www.luthed.org/nlsa/. If you are willing to volunteer on the accreditation team, or help with one of the facets of research and preparation, please contact the school office to get connected.
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