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Connecting the Dots of Accreditation
Leadership, Coherence, and Continuous Improvement
Connecting the Dots of Accreditation
Leadership, Coherence, and Continuous Improvement
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Description
The second edition of Connecting the Dots of Accreditations offers a significant update, with approximately 35% new content and comprehensive revisions to the original text. This edition expands its scope with timely new chapters on generative AI and educational technology-featuring a contribution by Christian Talbot, CEO of the Middle States Association-as well as critical topics such as social-emotional learning, the politicization of accreditation, diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), international accreditation, and the rise of online and hybrid schools. As the only published book focused exclusively on K–12 school accreditation in the United States, this volume remains an essential resource for educators and school leaders navigating an evolving educational landscape. Co-authors Barry R. Groves, President of WASC and a seasoned superintendent with four decades in California public education, and Marilyn S. George, WASC's Executive Vice President with over 40 years of accreditation leadership, bring unparalleled insight and expertise to this essential guide.
Table of Contents
Acknowledgments
Introduction
Chapter 1. Introduction to Connecting the Dots
Chapter 2. What Is Accreditation?
Chapter 3. Setting the Stage: A Brief Historical Perspective
Chapter 4. Why School Accreditation?
Chapter 5. Accreditation Process: Guiding Principles and Core Elements
Chapter 6. Creating Coherence through Accreditation
Chapter 7. Leadership: Using Accreditation as a Tool for Building Capacity
Chapter 8. Leadership: Ensuring a Continuous School Improvement Process Happens
Chapter 9. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in School Accreditation
Chapter10. Five Examples of Successful National Accreditation Implementation
Chapter 11. International School Accreditation: A Case Study in Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement Focused on Student Learning and Well-being
Chapter 12. Accreditation Landscape - Comparing K–12 and Higher Education
Chapter 13. The Politics of K-12 Accreditation: Navigating the Complex Landscape
Chapter 14. “Floors & Ceiling”: New Grammar for Accreditation in an Age of Exponential Technologies by Cristian Talbot, President and CEO of Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
Chapter 15. Updated Lesson Learned: Accreditation as a Continuous Process
Chapter 16. Accreditation and the Future
Appendix A. ICASA Accreditation Agencies
Bibliography
Index
Product details
| Published | 08 Jan 2026 |
|---|---|
| Format | Ebook (PDF) |
| Edition | 2nd |
| Extent | 176 |
| ISBN | 9798765160855 |
| Imprint | Bloomsbury Academic |
| Illustrations | 6 b/w figures |
| Publisher | Bloomsbury Publishing |
About the contributors
Reviews
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Schools are besieged with disparate requirements and initiatives from above and below. Groves and George provide a roadmap to use accreditation to create a consensus around one schoolwide action plan owned by the umbrella plan. Accreditation can be the basis of coherence and alignment of school policies and operations. It can replace many complex and broad district and school plans that pull and push schools in different directions. Also, Groves and George provide details on how to implement this integrated plan.
Michael Kirst, professor emeritus at Stanford University, served 12 years as president of the California State Board of Education.
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In today's ever-evolving educational landscape, ensuring quality and accountability in our schools has never been more critical. In Connecting the Dots of Accreditation, Marilyn George and Barry Groves delve deep into the intricate web of accreditation processes, illuminating the pathways that lead to enhanced educational standards and student success. This second edition builds upon the foundation of the first, offering fresh insights, updated strategies, and real-world examples that empower school leaders to navigate the complexities of accreditation with confidence.
Edgar Zazueta, executive director of the Association of California School Administrators
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Under the leadership of Dr. Barry Groves and Dr. Marilyn George, WASC has ensured that all schools have the appropriate guidance to continue to improve their respective educational programs. WASC has evolved the Self-Study process to support the diverse needs of schools and communities to allow celebrations where possible while ensuring that schools reflect on their programs to guarantee the best outcomes for all their students. They have embraced the unique challenges with innovation and high levels of support to schools seeking to achieve and maintain accreditation.
Hugo Sanchez, program director of Pioneer Technical Center at Madera County, California
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In a time of change, recognizing the importance of constant improvement in student learning as the one constant, Connecting the Dots of Accreditation celebrates the self-reflection of practice and the evolution of student learning as the center of our work. Marilyn George and Barry Groves provide the framework needed to build capacity for growth by using data to create action plans that remain fluid and focused on student success school.
Barbara Lawrence-Emanul, associate director at the Learning for Life Charter School, California.
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