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Accreditation Strands & Standards

Accreditation Strand #1
Clear Purpose

Mission and vision statements; transformational worldview

  1. The school has a written mission statement that articulates clearly to its community why the school exists and who the target audience is. The school also has a written vision statement that contains a shared commitment to continuous school improvement including two essential components: the spiritual growth and academic performance of students.

    A school successfully implementing this strand establishes expectations for student growth and learning that are aligned with the school’s mission and vision that are supported by school personnel and school stakeholders. These expectations serve as the central focus for assessing student performance and school effectiveness. The school’s mission and vision guide allocations of time, and human, material, and fiscal resources.

    The school intentionally commits to stimulating the spiritual growth and understanding of students by engaging students in the study of the Scriptures, teaching them methods for a life-time of biblical study, showing them how to develop a biblical/transformational world and life view, and providing opportunities throughout the curriculum for them to perceive God at work in all areas of history and life. The school engages students in activities of spiritual renewal and empowerment and provides opportunities for service and application.

    Standards

    Artifacts
    * Required
    1. School Maintains and Articulates Mission and Vision Statements

      The school has two major, guiding written statements for mission and vision that are consistently reviewed & revised and that articulate clearly 1) its mission, including whether it is intended primarily for children of believers or for outreach, and 2) its vision, including continuous school effectiveness and school improvement.

      Artifacts Postings of Mission/Vision statements School Mission statement School Vision statement
    2. School Has Philosophy of Education

      The school has a written philosophy of education, reflecting a commitment to Biblical perspectives and expressing a Reformed and/or transformational position, through which the student is enabled to develop and demonstrate a Christian view of God, man, and the world.

      Artifact Written Philosophy of Education
    3. School Has Educational Objectives

      The school translates the mission and vision of the school into written overall educational objectives.

      Artifact Written Educational Objectives
    4. School Maintains Admissions Practices

      The school carries out admissions practices for families and students targeted by the mission and purpose statements and enrolls those for whom it has appropriate programs, in compliance with applicable local, state, and federal rules and laws (e.g. ADA).

      Artifacts Admissions Information (eg, brochure) Admissions Interview Schedule
    5. School Has Non-Discriminatory Policy

      The school practices a non-discriminatory policy in which gender, race, or ethnicity of students are not factors in admissions or the application of any of its programs or processes.

      Artifacts Non Sexual Harassment Policy * Nondiscrimination Policy (school publications and public advertisements) * Student Handbook *
    6. School Communicates Accurate Level of Accreditation

      The school accurately represents the school’s status level of accreditation with CSF to its parent membership and to the public in general.

      Artifacts Admissions Information (eg, brochure) Admissions Web page Public Relations pieces
    7. School Maintains Profile of Students

      The school develops and continuously compiles a profile of its students, graduates, and target community.

      Artifact Profile of Graduates
    8. School’s Mission and Vision Guide Learning

      The school ensures that the school’s mission and vision guide the teaching and learning process.

      Artifact Curriculum Guide *
    9. School Embraces Christian Worldview

      The school embraces a Christian worldview that (a) integrates learning with faith, stimulates informed, biblical thinking, (b) encourages a growing understanding of God as the sovereign lord of the universe, (c) views the church as his transformational agent, (d) encourages a growing understanding of the holy scriptures and its relevancy to personal faith and Christian walk, (e) demonstrates a commitment to presenting each student with her/his need for a personal trust in Jesus Christ alone as Lord and Savior, and (f) demonstrates that it encourages each student towards a knowledge of and love for the Scriptures as the sole rule for faith and practice.

      Artifacts Adherence to Transformational Education Bible Instruction Class Devotions Evidence of Evangelism List of Student Service and Travel Opportunities School’s Statement of Faith Student Chapel Schedules Worldview Training and Integration in Curriculum Guide
    10. School Presents Students Opportunities for Lifetime of Christian Ministry

      The school presents to students opportunities to explore avenues for a lifetime of Christian ministry and service in fulfillment of the cultural mandate and the great commission.

      Artifact List of Student Service and Travel Opportunities
    11. School Engages Students in Worship

      The school engages students in the practice of worship and praise.

      Artifact Student Chapel Schedules
    12. School Provides Opportunities for Christian Service

      The school provides opportunities for Christian service.

      Artifact List of Student Service and Travel Opportunities
    13. School Shows Adherence to Transformational Ed and/or Historic Creeds

      The school shows adherence to the principles of transformational education and/or embraces one or several of the following historic creeds:

      • The Westminster Confession of Faith and the Larger and Shorter Catechisms
      • The Heidelberg Catechism
      • The Canons of Dordt
      • The Thirty-nine Articles of the Anglican Church
      • The Second London Confession of Faith
      • The Philadelphia Confession of Faith
      • The Augsburg Confession
      • The Solid Declaration of the Formula of Concord

      Artifacts Adherence to Historic Creed Adherence to Transformational Education School’s Statement of Faith
    Artifacts
    * Required

Accreditation Strand #2
School Effectiveness & Improvement

Promoting, maintaining, and communicating school effectiveness and improvement

  1. The school maintains a system promoting continuous school effectiveness and school improvement that focuses on student spiritual growth and academic performance, and it aligns all functions of the school with the adopted expectations for student spiritual growth and academic performance. Improvement efforts and activities are prompted and informed by the information obtained through earlier data gathering and by reflecting on and assessing the various components of the school effectiveness and school improvement process.

    The school encourages and maintains communication and collaboration with Board-determined stakeholders/ministry partners to garner their support, understanding, and awareness and to secure their prayer, financial, and other supporting activities for the purpose of advancing student spiritual growth and academic learning for the glory of God.

    Standards

    Artifacts
    * Required
    1. School Maintains a Systematic Plan

      The school intentionally maintains a systematic plan for effectiveness and improvement that (a) centrally focuses on the mission and purpose established for the school; (b) maintains an accurate current description of its students, including their spiritual growth and academic performance; (c) measures school effectiveness; (d) establishes and pursues measurable goals focused on student growth and performance; (e) documents and uses objective and verifiable information that the processes yield, highlights major foci for school improvement; and, (f) documents and uses the information to determine what the foci should be for school improvement.

      Artifact School’s Strategic Master Plan
    2. School Identifies 3–5 Focus Areas

      The school identifies 3-5 Focus Areas for special emphasis in the systematic plan that are realistic, obtainable, observable, and measurable.

      Artifact School Improvement Plan (csfla.org console)
    3. School Employs Benchmarked Improvement Plan

      The school employs in the improvement plan a specific and realistic timeline with benchmarks and projected target dates for the completion of identified goals (Action Steps within each Focus Area), which include not only academic, financial, or physical plant goals, but also distinctively Christian objectives — or those features of the school’s intended purpose which distinguish it from the secular schools in the community.

      Artifact School Improvement Plan (csfla.org console)
    4. School Engages Stakeholders in Improvement plan

      The school engages board-defined ministry partners/stakeholders in the process of continuous improvement.

      Artifacts Board Committees Community Resources Parent Aides and Helpers PTF Committees and Volunteers Stakeholder Survey
    5. School Aligns the Improvement Plan with Mission and Vision

      The school aligns the plans for continuous effectiveness and improvement with the mission and purpose of the school and the expectations for student growth and performance. To this end, Focus Areas should address at least one spiritual and one teaching/learning area.

      Artifact School Improvement Plan (csfla.org console)
    6. School Provides Training for Staff in Use of Delivery Systems and Interventions

      The school provides training/professional development for school staff to help them to understand and use delivery systems and interventions to achieve growth and performance goals.

      Artifacts Anonymized staff inservice record sample Hard Copies of Annual Inservicing of Staff School’s Inservice Activities (csfla.org console)
    7. School Maintains and Communicates Data for Accountability

      The school maintains the data gathered and communicates the results to board-determined stakeholders in order to maintain accountability.

      Artifact Results of stakeholder survey report to School Board & community
    8. School Gathers, Evaluates, and Documents Effectiveness

      The school gathers, evaluates, and documents the effectiveness of its continuous process of improvement.

      Artifact School Improvement Plan (csfla.org console)
    9. School Provides Student Progress Information for Stakeholder Involvement

      The school provides ongoing information about students’ expectations, their performance, and school effectiveness that encourages the prayer, financial, and activity support of the ministry partners/stakeholders.

      Artifacts Evidence of specific fundraising efforts or support School Head Reports to Board School News (csfla.org path) School Newsletters
    10. School Creates and Uses Formal Communication Channels

      The school creates and uses formal channels to listen to and communicate with ministry partners/stakeholders, including required Parent/Student Handbook.

      Artifacts Evidence of formal communication channels Evidence of parent/teacher conferences Parent/Student Handbook Parent/Teacher Association Meeting Minutes and Reports School Board Meeting Agendas, Minutes & Reports
    11. School Solicits Stakeholder Resources

      The school solicits the knowledge, skills, and resources of ministry partners/ stakeholders to enhance the work of the school. The school involves all ministry partners/stakeholders in the process of maintaining and evaluating continuous school improvement.

      Artifacts Evidence of Board Committee Work Evidence of Community Involvement Evidence of PTF, Parent Work
    12. School Employs Reflective Process

      The school employs a process to reflect on its performance collectively and individually in light of the school’s mission and commitment to school improvement and student performance.

      Artifact Evidence of Reflection on School Survey Results in Board/PTF Minutes
    Artifacts
    * Required

Accreditation Strand #3
Leadership & Governance

Structure, policies, procedures and practices

  1. The school provides godly leadership and governance that promote student performance and school effectiveness within its mission and vision perspectives.

    The school has a clearly defined governance structure that adheres to recognized best governance practices allowing the leaders to advocate for and guard the school’s mission and vision, for the school head and professional staff to operate with sufficient freedom towards those ends, and for the school’s continued efforts towards effectiveness and improvement. Leaders provide clear direction and allocate sufficient human, material, and financial resources necessary to carry out high quality instruction and support programs. Leaders encourage collaboration among stakeholders/ministry partners and provide avenues to support the program with financial gifts and prayer.

    The school’s policies, procedures, practices, and organizational structure ensure equity of learning opportunities for all students admitted into the school and support for ongoing innovation and improvement.

    Standards

    Artifacts
    * Required
    1. School is Incorporated as an Independent Christian School

      The school is incorporated as an independent Christian school or a ministry of a Bible-based church guided by Reformed/transformational beliefs, with a written constitution and bylaws containing adoption/incorporation dates.

      Artifacts Articles of Incorporation School’s Constitution/ByLaws
    2. School is an Early-Childhood or Day School

      The school is an independent early childhood or day school, offering a quality academic program in Christian education with written curriculum guides for all age/grade levels, and is not an independent day care center, home school association, or boarding school.

      Artifacts Curriculum Guide * Public Relations pieces School Website
    3. School Recognizes and Preserves Administrative Perogatives

      The school recognizes and preserves by policy and practice the executive, administrative, and leadership perogatives and functions of the administrative head of the school.

      Artifacts Board Policy Manual * Governance flowchart
    4. School Ensures Compliance with Laws and Regulations

      The school ensures compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws, standards, and regulations.

      Artifacts ADA Policy Non-Discriminatory Statement Non-Harassment Policy
    5. School Maintains Board Manual and Minutes

      The school maintains a reviewed and up-to-date policy manual and a separate record of all board minutes.

      Artifacts Board Policy Manual * School Board Meeting Agendas, Minutes & Reports
    6. School Adheres to Board Member Policies

      The school adheres to the policies and processes contained in the policy manual for recruiting, nominating, electing, selecting officers, and establishing spiritual qualifications and duties of all candidates, nominees, and current board members.

      Artifact Board Qualifications and Selection Process
    7. School Operates under a Governing Board

      The school operates under a governing board that establishes written policies and procedures within a constitution, bylaws, and board manual that provide for the effective operation of the school.

      Artifacts Board Committees Board Policy Manual * Clearly Defined Church/Board Relationship Evidence of Board Involvement in Strategic Planning
    8. Board Utilizes Process for Strategic Planning

      The board utilizes a process for strategic and master planning to address the present and future needs of the school.

      Artifact School’s Strategic Master Plan
    9. School Delegates to Chief Administrator

      The school delegates executive and administrative functions to the chief administrative officer who is recognized as the head of the school.

      Artifact School Head Job Description
    10. School Has Written Organizational Plan of Leadership

      The school has a written organizational plan of leadership that articulates the responsibilities, accountabilities, and reporting systems from one level of leadership to the other.

      Artifact Governance flowchart
    11. School Board Maintains Relationship with and Evaluation of School Head

      The school board employs a process to maintain a strong, open, mutually honoring relationship with the school head and annually conducts a formal, written evaluation of her/his performance.

      Artifact Annual Written Evaluation of School Head / Chief Administrator
    12. School Maintains Communication with Stakeholders

      The school employs a process to maintain good communication and mutual respect between the board, the administration, the faculty and staff, the parents, the students, and all other ministry partners/stakeholders.

      Artifact Interviews with appropriate stakeholders
    13. School Maintains Relationship with Church

      The school, if church-operated or affiliated, defines and maintains a strong, open relationship with the governing body of the local church, and works to maintain a similar relationship between the senior minister and the school head.

      Artifacts Evidence of school head / pastor relationship Governance flowchart
    14. Proprietary School Compliance

      The proprietary school must comply with all Leadership and Governance standards with some modifications.

      See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
      1. Proprietary School Need Not Maintain Board

        The proprietary school shall not be required to maintain a school board for purposes of governing the school. However, its policy manual must contain processes that are expected of all other member schools to ensure a healthy, professional environment for faculty, support staff, and students, and processes that ensure school and parent relationships that are expected for all other member schools.

        Artifact Proprietary School Policy Manual
      2. Proprietary School Governance

        The proprietary school may be governed by a board of directors, advisory council, or by the ownership of the school operating under the school’s constitution (or Articles of Incorporation) and by-laws.

        Artifact Proprietary School Constitution/ByLaws
      3. Proprietary School Has Articles of Incorporation

        The proprietary school shall have Articles of Incorporation that shall be considered the equivalency to by-laws required of non-profit schools for purposes of determining suitability for associate membership and/or accredited membership in CSF.

        Artifact Proprietary School Articles of Incorporation
      4. Proprietor May Delegate and Evaluate

        The proprietary school shall have a proprietor, if not serving as the administrative head, who delegates executive and administrative functions to a chief administrative officer who is recognized as the head of the school. The relationship between the proprietor and the head of school must be strong and open. The proprietor must formally evaluate annually in writing the chief administrator.

        Artifact Annual written evaluation by proprietor of chief administrative officer
      5. Proprietary School Involves Stakeholders

        The proprietary school shall establish and maintain processes that involve the stakeholders of the school in the process for purposes of establishing and maintaining a process for school improvement.

        Artifacts Interviews with appropriate stakeholders Stakeholder Survey
    15. School Fosters Learning Community

      The school fosters a learning community.

      Artifacts Evidence of grade-level sharing Evidence of mentoring processes Evidence of new teacher orientation Faculty meeting agendas/minutes
    16. School Exemplifies Servant Spirit

      The school exemplifies a servant spirit exercised through high quality spiritual, professional leadership.

      Artifacts Evidence of training in or application of Transformational Education Mission trips Student service opportunities
    17. School Provides Opportunities to Lead and Innovate

      The school provides teachers and students opportunities to lead and to innovate.

      Artifacts Evidence of student leadership Evidence of teacher initiatives Faculty meeting agendas/minutes Student Council agendas/minutes
    18. School Provides Meaningful Roles to Stakeholders

      The school provides stakeholders/ministry partners meaningful roles in the decision-making process that promote a culture of participation, responsibility, and ownership.

      Artifacts Evidence of Board Committee Work Evidence of Community Involvement Parent/Teacher Association Meeting Minutes and Reports
    19. School Controls All School-Sponsored Activities

      The school controls all business, financial, curricular, extracurricular and support activities that are sponsored by the school.

      Artifact Governance flowchart
    Artifacts
    * Required

Accreditation Strand #4
Teaching & Learning

Curriculum and instruction

  1. The school provides a researched-based curriculum and instructional methods that facilitate achievement for all students. The curriculum is based on clear and measurable expectations/objectives for student learning and provides opportunities for all students admitted to the school to acquire knowledge, skills, and attitudes within a biblical framework.

    Teachers use proven instructional practices that effectively engage students in the learning process and provide opportunities for students to apply their knowledge and skills in real world situations as Christians. Teachers give to students sufficient feedback to improve their performance.

    Teachers provide spiritual and professional role models that encourage students to aspire to a lifetime of learning as Christians and to view the world from a consistent biblical/transformational worldview.

    Standards

    Artifacts
    * Required
    1. School Implements Clearly-Defined Learner Outcomes

      The school develops and implements a curriculum based on clearly-defined learner outcomes.

      Artifact Curriculum Guide *
    2. School Improvement Plan Considers Community

      The school demonstrates in the school improvement plan a knowledge and understanding of the community for which the school is founded (e.g. opportunities for recruiting families and students, attitudes of the local Christian community and local pastors toward the school, and the impact of demographic and economic trends on enrollment).

      Artifacts Demographic studies Evidence of Interaction with local Christian leaders Stakeholder Survey Tracked and projected enrollment figures
    3. School Promotes Higher-Order Thinking Skills

      The school promotes the use of higher-order thinking skills and guides students to be actively involved in accompanying learning process.

      Artifacts Curriculum Guide * Evidence of STEM/STEAM or robotics offerings Incorporation of Bloom’s Taxonomy
    4. School Offers Curriculum of Challenge and Equity

      The school offers a curriculum that challenges each student to excel, reflects a commitment to equity within the scope of student needs and admission policies, and demonstrates a willingness to value and address diversities.

      Artifacts Admissions Policy Curriculum Guide * Evidence of addressing diverse learning needs (eg ESE/SWD, gifted) Evidence of diversity training
    5. School Conforms to Florida Compulsory Attendance Law

      The school allocates and guards instructional time within the school day and school calendar in order to maximize time on task and student learning, conforming the school year to the Florida Compulsory School Attendance Law and the interpretation of that Law by the FLDOE.

      See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
      1. Compulsory School Attendance Days

        For compliance with the Florida Compulsory School Attendance Law, the school is in session for a minimum of 170 days per academic year.

        Artifacts High school class schedule School calendar with minimum 170 days in session *
      2. Compulsory School Attendance Hours

        For compliance with the Florida Compulsory School Attendance Law, the school is in session for a minimum of the following instructional hours in each of the following grade categories per academic year:

        • Kindergarten: 540 hours
        • Grades 1–3: 720 hours
        • Grades 4–12: 900 hours

        Note: the FLDOE increasingly loosens its interpretation of the law to allow for a multiplicity of delivery systems, including schools offering a blend of classroom, internet, and home education. However, the above instructional hours must be accomplished on the actual school site when a school participates in one of the Florida scholarship programs, i.e. McKay, Step Up, VPK.

        There is no state statute regulating minimum instructional hours for awarding high school credit. The rule for public schools in Florida is a minimum of 135 hours of instruction to award one credit. The state university system generally uses the 135 hours definition for evaluating high school credits earned because of that stipulated number of minimum hours for Florida public school.

        Artifacts Evidence of instructional hours by grade levels Evidence of minimum 135 hours instruction per credit
    6. School Maintains Written Curricular Alignment in Scope and Sequence

      The school maintains and follows an up-to-date, written curricular alignment in scope and sequence among all levels of learners for all current courses and subject areas. It includes (a) a Christian philosophy of teaching and learning; (b) instructional objectives and learner outcomes; (c) student assessments; (d) course outlines that identify concepts; and (e) materials and resources used to accomplish the goals and outcomes.

      See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
      1. Early Childhood Instructional Division Requirements

        The Early Childhood Instructional Division provides a balance of activities, sufficient classroom materials, a developmental curriculum, and meets the required teacher-to-child ratio. These standards are explicated in the EC-1 HSS Checklist PDF download.

      2. Elementary Instructional Division Requirements

        The Elementary Instructional Division provides for development of students, an academic curriculum with Christian worldview, and instructional methods and strategies.

        See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
        1. Elementary Instructional Division Develops Student

          The Elementary Instructional Division provides a curriculum that develops in students:

          • an understanding that the Bible is the only authoritative basis for an individual’s moral development, faith, and spiritual practice
          • basic skills and understanding in reading, oral and written communication, and mathematics
          • essential knowledge in the fields of life, physical, and social science
          • functional skills in computer literacy and technology
          • habits conducive to wholesome development in the areas of physical growth and health
          • appreciation of literature, drama, music, art and basic skills in these artistic expressions
          • the ability to think, act, and research independently
          • willingness to accept responsibility
          • an appreciation of cultural and ethnic diversity
          • ability to live and function in a social setting and to establish a wholesome relationship with God, adults, and peers
          • moral, ethical, and patriotic values

        2. Elementary Instructional Division Academic Disciplines

          The Elementary Instructional Division provides a curriculum that contains academic disciplines taught from a distinctly Christian viewpoint integrating faith to learning including:

          • Bible and worship
          • language arts (including reading, writing, and oral communication)
          • mathematics
          • life and physical science
          • social studies and history
          • health and physical education
          • art, music, drama, and crafts
          • computer science
          • Bible and worship

        3. Elementary Instructional Division Methods and Strategies

          The Elementary Instructional Division employs strategies that include:

          • a multi-sensory approach
          • use of learning centers
          • cooperative learning groups
          • peer coaching
          • large group, small group, and individualized opportunities for learning
          • computerized instruction and integration of computerized learning

      3. Middle School/Junior High School Instructional Division Requirements

        The Middle School/Junior High Instructional Division provides development of students, provides for development of students, an academic curriculum with Christian worldview, and a varied co-curriculum.

        See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
        1. Middle School/Junior High School Instructional Division Develops Students

          The MS/Jr High Instructional Division develops students and provides:

          • a growing understanding of God, His Word and its relevancy to personal faith and Christian walk
          • a fuller understanding of being created in the image of God
          • an appreciation of various kinds of literature and literary styles
          • competency in written communication
          • confidence in expressing thoughts and opinions through oral
          • communication and listening skills
          • competency in mathematics, abstract thinking, reasoning and problem solving skills
          • a greater understanding of scientific principles through inquiry, exploration and experimentation
          • a more highly developed understanding of computer technology and its application, increased use of technology in teaching, as well as student skill in computer use
          • personal physical conditioning and wholesome health habits
          • an appreciation for the creative arts, as well as develop talent in artistic expression
          • an appreciation for other ethnics groups and cultures
          • the ability to think, act and research independently
          • opportunities for the development of personal interests or talents through a variety of activities
          • opportunities for Christian service
          • opportunities for interpersonal relationships and social interactions through a variety of activities and events
          • guidance and counsel for spiritual, academic, and emotional needs

        2. Middle School/Junior High School Instructional Division Academic Disciplines

          The MS/Jr High provides a curriculum that contains academic disciplines taught from a distinctly Christian viewpoint integrating learning with faith including:

          • Bible and worship
          • English (grammar, vocabulary, literature, communication skills)
          • mathematics (general or advanced)
          • science (life and physical science) Science and other laboratories are furnished and equipped and comply with local and state codes for health and safety (e.g., showers in chemistry labs, safe storage of hazardous chemicals, etc.),
          • social studies and history (geography, world history, United States history)
          • health education and physical education
          • fine arts (music and art)
          • foreign language
          • computer science

        3. Middle School/Junior High School Instructional Division Co-Curriculum

          The MS/Jr High Instructional Division offers a co-curriculum with at least eight of the following:

          • chorus
          • band
          • orchestra
          • interscholastic sports with equitable opportunities for girls and boys
          • intramural sports with equitable opportunities for girls and boys
          • cheerleading
          • club program
          • community service
          • scholastic competition
          • National Junior Honor Society ( for re-accreditation only)
          • prayer and Bible study groups
          • Fellowship of Christian Athletes or a similar program
          • school newspaper
          • yearbook
          • literary magazine
          • student government
          • chapel
          • drama
          • fine art competitions or shows

      4. High School Instructional Division Requirements

        The High School Instructional Division provides a curriculum that develops students, requires a cumulative GPA in either or both of two academic programs, contains a minimum core academic requirements, and also provides a balanced co-curriculum.

        See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
        1. High School Instructional Division Develops Students

          The High School Instructional Division provides a curriculum that develops for students:

          • active, contributing citizenship in God’s kingdom
          • a deeper understanding of God, His Word and its relevancy to personal faith and Christian walk
          • a fuller understanding of being created in the image of God
          • an appreciation of various kinds of literature and literary styles
          • competency in written communication
          • confidence in expressing thoughts and opinions through oral communication and listening skills
          • competency in mathematics, abstract thinking, reasoning and problem solving skills
          • a greater understanding of scientific principles through inquiry, experimentation
          • a greater understanding of computer technology and its application, as well as skill in computer use
          • lifetime physical conditioning and wholesome health habits
          • an appreciation for the creative arts, as well as develop talent in artistic expression
          • an appreciation for other ethnic groups and cultures
          • the ability to think, act and research independently
          • opportunities for the development of personal interests or talents through a variety of activities
          • opportunities for Christian service
          • opportunities for interpersonal relationships and social interactions through a variety of activities and events
          • guidance and counsel for spiritual, academic, and emotional needs

        2. High School Instructional Division Curriculum Provides Academic Programs

          The High School provides a curriculum that requires a cumulative 2.0 GPA for courses required for graduation contained in either or both of two academic programs: a college preparatory program, and a general program. The college preparatory program is academically demanding in depth and scope so as to prepare graduates with the knowledge, skills, and independence necessary to successfully pursue advanced learning at the college/university level. Both programs are taught from a distinctly Christian viewpoint, integrating learning with faith.

        3. High School Instructional Division Curriculum Contains Core Academic Requirements

          The High School Instructional Program provides a curriculum that contains a minimum of 24 core academic requirements as stated in the Course Code Directory published by the Florida Department of Education and required for entrance into the Florida State University System, and with elective courses that are planned and conducted with the same professional validity as the core academic courses, including but not limited to the following credits:

          • 3 Bible
          • 3 social studies and history
          • 4 English
          • 3 science (two with laboratory) Science and other laboratories are furnished and equipped and comply with local and state codes for health and safety (e.g., showers in chemistry labs, safe storage of hazardous chemicals, etc.)
          • 3 mathematics (algebra I, geometry, algebra II)
          • 2 foreign language (through second level of the same language required for college preparatory program)
          • 1 practical arts or performing arts
          • 1 physical education to include the integration of health
          • 3-5 electives

        4. High School Instructional Division Co-Curriculum

          The High School Instructional Division ensures a co-curriculum that offers at least one activity in each of the following areas, with balanced equity of participation for girls and boys:

          • athletics
          • spiritual development
          • arts
          • community/school service
          • communications
          • academic/social activities

    7. School Evidences Intra- and Inter-Departmental Cooperation

      The school evidences cooperative vertical, horizontal, intra-departmental, and inter-departmental planning and coordinating the curriculum.

      Artifact Inter- and Intra-Departmental meeting agendas/minutes
    8. School Addresses Special Needs Assistance

      The school implements processes and utilizes personnel necessary to address student learning for those needing special assistance.

      See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
      1. Special Needs Academic Programs On Site or Referral

        The school makes available academic programs on site or through referral which meet the needs of exceptional children in its enrollment (e.g. SLD, gifted, enhancement, tutorial, etc.)

        Artifacts Curriculum Guide * Evidence of academic programs for exceptional students (SWD, gifted, etc.) Evidence of tutorials, pull-out programs & outside referral programs for exceptional students
      2. Special Needs Support Programs On-site or through Referral

        The school makes available support programs on site or through referral which service students and their families with psychological or behavioral needs (e.g. guidance/counseling, behavioral management, parenting skills training, etc.)

        Artifact Evidence of tutorials, pull-out programs & outside referral programs for exceptional students
      3. Special Needs Extended Day Supervision

        The school provides adequate supervision, when providing an extended day program, and meets all applicable DCF and county requirements, including play, instructional, and rest space and adult to child ratios

        Artifact Evidence of adequate supervision for extended day program
      4. Special Needs Volunteer Services

        The school has a parent organization(s) that provide(s) volunteer services to students, teachers, and administration.

        Artifact Evidence of parent volunteer services for special needs
    9. School Provides Spiritual, Academic, and Career Counseling

      The school provides appropriate guidance and counseling services for students’ spiritual, academic, and career counseling.

      Artifact Plans for spiritual, academic & career counseling
    10. School Employs Guidance Counseling Personnel or Plan

      The school employs a guidance counselor or contracted consultant for high schools dependent upon the full-time equivalent student population. A written guidance plan is followed for the provision of counseling services for elementary and middle schools.

      See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
      1. Guidance Counseling Personnel Requirements

        The school employs a full-time guidance counselor for high schools with 300+ full-time equivalent (FTE) students, a part-time counselor for 100–299 FTE students, and a contracted consultant for 1–99 FTE high school students.

        A counselor or consultant satisfies one of the following criteria:

        • Is certified in guidance or is certifiable; or
        • Has a degree in a suitable area with sufficient experience or training in guiding students in educational matters to warrant their appointment; in such cases, to warrant assignment to this important task, the school head shall verify in writing for submission to the visiting team chair the reasons for the appointment.

        Artifacts Guidance counseling staff profiles School Staff (csfla.org console)
      2. College Counseling Personnel Requirements

        A person assigned as a full time or part time college admissions counselor satisfies one of the following criteria:

        • Is certified in guidance or is certifiable; or
        • Has a degree in a suitable area with sufficient experience or training in guiding students in educational matters to warrant their appointment; in such cases, to warrant assignment to this important task, the school head shall verify in writing for submission to the visiting team chair the reasons for the appointment.

        Artifacts Guidance counseling staff profiles School Staff (csfla.org console)
      3. Guidance Counseling Written Plan

        A written guidance plan is followed specifying personnel and procedures used to provide counseling services for elementary and middle schools.

        Artifact Written guidance plan
    11. School Provides Comprehensive Technology and Media Services and Personnel

      The school provides access for all students to comprehensive technology and media services and personnel that support the curricular and instructional programs.

      See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
      1. Information Resource Center (IRC)

        As an information resource center, the school may choose to maintain either of the following:

        • A traditional library/media center with allowance to make digital additions to its services, rather than acquiring additional, traditional print media.
        • An information resource center providing digital information that has some criteria equivalent to the standards that now exist for print materials.

        See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
        1. IRC Offers Instruction and Research

          The information resource center (IRC) offers instruction and research training in both print and electronic resources.

          Artifacts IRC Policies and Procedures IRC schedule for student instruction and research
        2. IRC Has Selection and Review Process

          The IRC has policies and procedures which reflect the school’s Christian philosophy in the selection of books and materials and contains a selection and review policy to evaluate the appropriateness of materials for student use.

          Artifact IRC policies for philosophy and selection/review of materials
        3. IRC Collection Requirements

          The lRC contains a minimum of 1,500 usable and acceptable library volumes or 10 volumes per student, whichever is greater; or provides equivalent information resources, either through a combination of print and digital resources, or digital resources.

          Artifact IRC inventory of books / digital resources
        4. IRC Collection Is Comprehensive and Balanced

          The lRC maintains a comprehensive and balanced information and media collection in print and digital formats balanced in variety and adequate in quantity to meet the needs of the school’s curriculum and instructional presentations.

          Artifact IRC policies for philosophy and selection/review of materials
        5. IRC Ensures Access

          The IRC ensures that all students and staff members have regular, ready access to information and media services, materials, and equipment.

          Artifact Evidence of IRC interaction with classroom staff
        6. IRC Cataloging

          The IRC properly catalogs its holdings.

        7. IRC Maintains Budget

          The IRC maintains an annual budget that includes sufficient expenditures to support a comprehensive, balanced, and growing information and media collection.

          Artifact IRC annual budget
        8. IRC Collaboration

          The IRC ensures that the information and media staff collaborates with other professional staff members to attain maximum benefit from the resources.

          Artifact Evidence of IRC interaction with classroom staff
        9. IRC Challenge Policy

          The IRC possesses a policy and procedure for responding to challenged materials.

          Artifact IRC policies for censorship and internet use
        10. IRC Acceptable Internet Use

          The IRC possesses and publishes a policy on acceptable use of the Internet.

          Artifact IRC policies for censorship and internet use
        11. IRC for Early Childhood

          The IRC provides for Early Childhood centers either centralized or decentralized information resources for the children. (see Strand 7 Early Childhood for further specifics.)

      2. Information Resource Center Personnel Employment

        The school assigns personnel to the information resource center according to a formula based upon student population.

        See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
        1. Full-Time Information Resource Specialist

          If enrollment is 400 or more full-time equivalent students (FTE), a full-time information resource specialist is employed.

        2. Half-Time Information Resource Specialist

          If the enrollment is 100 to 399 (FTE), a half-time information resource specialist is employed

        3. Information Resource Specialist Consultant

          If the enrollment is less than 100 (FTE), an information resource consultant,who consults monthly (regularly) to assist non-qualified staff in planning, instruction, and management for information resource, is retained.

        4. Early Childhood Information Services Specialist Exemption

          Early childhood stand-alone programs are exempt from library/media and information resource personnel qualifications.

      3. Information Resource Center Personnel Credentials

        The school assigns personnel to the information resource center who have professional training.

        See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
        1. Full-Time Information Services Specialist and Consultant Training

          A full-time information services specialist or consultant satisfies one of the following criteria:
          1. has state certification in library/media science or information services, or
          2. is certifiable in library/media science, or information services, or
          3. has a degree in library/media science or information services, or documentation of active pursuit of such; or,
          4. has an academic and/or professional background and experience sufficient to warrant assignment to this position which is verified in writing for the visiting team chair.

        2. Part-Time Information Services Specialist Training

          A part-time information services specialist satisfies one of the following criteria:
          1. completed a minimum of 12 credit hours in library/media science or information services, or
          2. has an academic background and experience to warrant assignment to this position which is verified in writing for submission to the visiting team chair.

        3. Early Childhood Librarian/Media Specialist Training Exemption

          Early childhood stand-alone programs are exempt from information resource personnel qualifications. (See Strand #7 Early Childhood for further specifics.)

    12. School Establishes and Maintains Student Discipline

      The school establishes and maintains student discipline processes, dress codes, and student behavior expectations that are appropriate in nature, are clearly defined in written form, are fairly and consistently implemented, are documented when necessary, and are distributed to the school families, faculty, and staff. These include important topics including attendance, suspension and expulsion, substance abuse, and sexual harassment. The school monitors its climate and campus, and consistently takes steps to ensure they are conducive to safe and unhindered learning.

      Artifact Student Handbook *
    13. Transfer of Credit

      Member schools are encouraged to accept credit for academic work accomplished at schools accredited by a recognized accrediting agency (see below for definition of recognized accrediting agency).

      Member schools will not award academic credit for course work completed under a private tutor or a non-accredited program unless validated by either an End-Of-Course Assessment (EOCA) approved by the receiving school or by the student’s performance as validated during at least one grading period in the receiving school. This does not apply to students taking online courses offered by accredited delivery programs.

      Recognized Accrediting Agencies:

      • Regional Accrediting Agencies: Cognia, MSSA, NCACS, NEACS, WACS, NWACS
      • Member Accrediting Agencies of the Florida Association of Academic Nonpublic Schools (FAANS)
      • Member Accrediting Agencies of the National Council for Private School Accreditation (NCPSA)
      Artifacts Anonymized student transfer transcripts Evidence of student performance assessment Evidence of transfer of credit Sample of EOCA
    Artifacts
    * Required

Accreditation Strand #5
Assessment

Gathering, codifying, and using results

  1. The school has adopted and uses a comprehensive process that monitors, documents, and assesses (1) student performance based on adopted expectations/objectives for learning, (2) the effectiveness of curriculum and instruction in meeting those expectations/objectives, and (3) overall school effectiveness.

    The school uses the information yielded by this process to determine improvements needed to increase overall student performance and to provide timely and accurate information to administrators, teachers, students, and parents about student performance, instructional effectiveness, and overall school effectiveness. It also tracks and reports the results of the school’s overall improvement efforts and provides the data necessary to lead the school to increasing improvement.

    Standards

    Artifacts
    * Required
    1. School Employs Comprehensive Assessment Program

      The school employs a comprehensive assessment program that provides for analysis and review of student performance and school effectiveness.

      Narrative required
    2. School Establishes Performance Measures Based on Instructional Objectives

      The school establishes performance measures based on adopted instructional objectives for student learning that provide information that is concrete, accurate, reliable, and valid, rather than individual or institutional subjective opinions or perceptions.

      Narrative required
    3. School’s Written Assessment Plan Determines Student, Instructional, and Curricular Improvement

      The school has a written student assessment plan that serves as the basis for how the school (a) constructs student assessments, (b) conducts student assessments, and (c) uses the results of student assessments for determining student progress/needs, improving instruction, and improving curricular offerings.

      Artifact Student assessment policy and process (clearly-defined and comprehensive) *
    4. School Gathers, Analyzes, and Uses Student Assessment Data

      The school gathers, analyzes, and uses student assessment data for determining instructional and learning effectiveness and uses the results for making decisions for continuous improvement of teaching and learning processes.

      Narrative required
    5. School Communicates Assessment Results to Stakeholders

      The school communicates the results of student performance, instructional effectiveness, and overall school effectiveness to all pertinent stakeholders in a reporting process as determined by the school’s governing board. This includes sending to parents and guardians periodic progress reports, quarterly and semester academic reports, and annually the results of a national norm-referenced test. Parent conferences are held at least annually in at least grades Pre-K through 5 to discuss individual student progress.

      Narrative required Artifacts Anonymized student progress report Evidence of parent/teacher conferences Evidence of student achievement (e.g. standardized test scores, PSAT, SAT, ACT scores, etc.) * Quarterly and semester academic report
    6. School Conducts Annual Norm-Referenced Standardized Testing

      The school conducts annually a national norm-referenced test for grades selected by the school and sends results to parents annually.

      Artifacts Evidence of student achievement (e.g. standardized test scores, PSAT, SAT, ACT scores, etc.) * Sample of norm-referenced test used
    7. School Documents Use of Nationally-Normed Norm-Referenced Standardized Testing

      The school documents the use of nationally norm-referenced test that includes: (a) what instrument(s) is(are) used, (b) when it is administered, (c) how the results are used for determining individual student progress/needs, and (d) how the results are used for for curriculum modification and improving instruction. (See Strand 7 for appropriate Early Childhood assessment)

      Artifacts Sample of analysis data and process Sample of norm-referenced test used
    8. School Demonstrates with Objective Data

      The school demonstrates through objective data proven growth and improvement in student performance, instructional effectiveness, and overall school effectiveness.

      Artifact Sample of analysis data and process
    9. School Seeking Common Core Aligned Accreditation Incorporates FL Common Core Standards

      The school seeking common core aligned accreditation has incorporated Florida Common Core Standards into its curriculum.

      Artifact Common-core curricular information
    10. School Seeking Common Core Aligned Accreditation Conducts Annual Criterion Reference Testing

      The school seeking common core aligned accreditation conducts annual criterion reference testing that is published by a nationally-recognized agency and is in alignment with the Florida Common Core Standards.

      Artifact Sample of criterion referenced test
    11. School Seeking Common Core Aligned Accreditation Has Written Testing

      The school seeking common core aligned accreditation has a written plan for national criterion reference testing that includes (a) what nationally-recognized instrument(s) is(are) used, (b) when administered, (c) how the results are used for determining individual student progress/needs, and (d) how the results are used for curriculum modification and improving instruction.

      Artifacts Sample of analysis data and process Sample of criterion referenced test
    Artifacts
    * Required

Accreditation Strand #6
Documenting Resources & Systems

Personnel, material, and financial concerns

  1. The school allocates sufficient material, personnel, and financial resources to implement, support, and achieve its mission, vision, and comprehensive plan for continuous school effectiveness and improvement. The school employs and assigns administrative, instructional, and support staff who are qualified for their assignments, and provides professional development programs to improve their effectiveness. The school complies with applicable local, state, and federal laws, rules, and regulations.

    Standards

    Artifacts
    * Required
    1. School Complies with Health, Safety, and Sanitation Laws

      The school complies with all national, state, and local laws for health, safety, sanitation, and background screening in order to maintain a safe and healthy environment.

      See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
      1. Communicable Disease Compliance (eg, OSHA)

        The school complies with all national, state, and local laws relating to communicable diseases, including OSHA requirements regarding blood-borne pathogens.

        Artifacts Board Policy Manual section for communicable diseases Evidence of compliance with CDC recommendations against COVID-19 Evidence of OSHA training Parent/Student Handbook section for communicable diseases
      2. Immunization, Food Service, Background Screening, and Facility Inspection Compliance

        The school complies with all applicable national, state, and local health, safety, and sanitation codes including immunization records, food service regulations, fire inspections, and asbestos and radon inspection, and background screening as prescribed by Florida law.

        Artifacts Asbestos Inspection Report Background Checks for all staff in contact with children five years of age and younger * Evidence of compliance with food service regulations Evidence of Current Fire Marshall Inspection * Evidence of Current Health Department Inspection * Evidence of fire extinguisher inspections Radon Inspection Report
      3. School Maintains File for Health, Safety, and Sanitation Inspections

        The school maintains a file of annual health, safety, sanitation, and fire inspections to verify compliance with state law.

        Artifacts Evidence of Current Fire Marshall Inspection * Evidence of Current Health Department Inspection * Evidence of HSS inspection by CSF, or by state if licensed, or by county if home-ruled
      4. School Practices Process for Screening All Staff

        The school practices a process for screening potential administrators, teachers, and support staff that complies with state law and takes every precaution to protect the school community from potentially abusive persons, including Level II background screening and letters of reference.

        Artifact Anonymized evidence of Staff Level II background screening
      5. CPR Training Requirement

        The school requires a minimum of 10% of the staff members be trained in first aid and CPR procedures. One staff member or designated adult with up-to-date training in first aid and CPR must be present at all school activities.

        Artifact Record of staff first aid and CPR training
      6. Clinic Requirements

        The school operates a well-equipped clinic area, which is under the direct supervision of a staff member or school volunteer. Clinic equipment must include cots, first aid supplies, and thermometers. Emergency procedures must be clearly defined and posted.

        Artifact Clinic area equipment inventory
      7. Dispensing Medication Requirements

        The school dispenses prescription medication issued/prescribed by a physician, physician’s assistant or a nurse practitioner. The head of school, or his/her delegated staff person, is responsible for the dispensing of prescribed medications. All staff persons designated to dispense prescribed medications must be trained by a written training plan adopted by the school. Prescription medication may only be dispensed from its original container. Prescription medication may only be dispensed when accompanied by a prescription issued by a physician, physician’s assistant or a nurse practitioner, and with prior written parental permission. A log of all dispensed prescription medications must be maintained. Prescription medications must be stored in a locked cabinet or in a locked container in a refrigerator. FDA-approved oral non-prescription (over-the-counter) or sample drugs will be dispensed only when accompanied by written orders from a licensed physician, a physician’s assistant, or a nurse practitioner. Florida Statute 1006.062 is the reference for medication guidelines.

        Artifact Written training plan for dispensing of prescription medication
      8. Child Abuse Training

        The school trains the professional and volunteer staff annually in child abuse reporting procedures in accordance with state and local regulations (FS 1012.98(12)).

        Artifact Evidence of staff-wide training in recognizing and reporting child abuse
      9. Access and Release of Student Records

        The school establishes, publishes, and practices written procedures for the access and release of students to non-custodial parties, and that controls visitor access to the school.

        Artifact Parent/student Handbook section on access to and release of students
      10. Arrival/Dismissal and Parking/Traffic Procedures

        The school employs arrival and dismissal schedules and parking and traffic patterns designed to provide reasonable procedures for the safety of all students.

        Artifact Copy of arrival and dismissal schedule and traffic pattern
      11. School Posts Emergency Access Numbers

        The school posts emergency access numbers in a highly visible manner at each telephone.

        Artifact Evidence of posted emergency access telephone numbers
      12. School Maintains Fire Extinguishers and Their Use

        The school installs and maintains fire extinguishers in sufficient numbers and properly placed throughout the school, that are maintained and inspected regularly in accordance with local and state fire codes; staff members are adequately trained in their use.

        Artifacts Evidence of fire extinguisher inspections Evidence of staff training in use of fire extinguishers
      13. Crisis Management Plan and Drills

        The school develops and maintains a written crisis management plan in which all employees are regularly trained and appropriate drills conducted.

        See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
        1. Lockdown and Evacuation Procedures

          The school inspects the campus for possible breaches in security and maintains and instructs a process for the school community in lockdown and evacuation procedures, and reporting incidents to the general public.

          Artifact Written plan and logs for emergency drill process
        2. Safety/Emergency Drill Procedures and Log

          The school carries out safety/emergency drills (i.e. fire, tornado, lockdown, bomb threat) for students at all levels, and a log of such drills is maintained; the log contains the date of the drill, the number of students participating, the time required for any evacuation necessary, and any special conditions that occurred.

          Artifact Written plan and logs for emergency drill process
        3. Safety Drill Attendance

          The school conducts student attendance at each drill at all grade levels, either after students have evacuated buildings or in individual rooms during lockdown

          Artifact Written plan and logs for emergency drill process
        4. Facility Inspection during Drill

          The school inspects at the outset of the drill the entire interior of the school facilities to make certain that no persons are left behind, which adheres to a written plan that is in place to guide the process.

          Artifact Written plan and logs for emergency drill process
        5. Emergency Drill Frequency

          The school holds emergency drills with required frequency throughout the year.

          See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
          1. Tornado Drills

            Tornado drills are held once each semester.

            Artifact Evidence of required number of tornado drills
          2. Lockdown Drills

            Lockdown drills are held once each quarter

            Artifact Evidence of required number of lockdown drills
          3. Fire Drills

            Fire drills are held monthly, with the initial drill held within the first 15 days of the start of the school year, and escape routes are posted in each classroom and school office area;

            Artifact Evidence of required number of fire drills
      14. Transportation Procedures and Requirements

        The school complies with transportation procedures and requirements:

        See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
        1. Drivers of School Vehicles

          Every driver of a school vehicle must have a valid driver’s license and be approved according to the school’s established safe driver policy.

          Artifact Evidence of drivers license requirement for school transportation
        2. School-Operated Vehicles

          All school-operated vehicles are well maintained, inspected every six months, and meet required state standards for safety. The school complies with all state laws regulating school transportation and with the manufacturer’s passenger capacity limits.


          Artifact Evidence of maintenance and inspection of school operated vehicles
        3. Vehicular Liability Insurance

          Adequate liability insurance is carried on all vehicles, including those contracted and used for student transportation, with a minimum amount of vehicular coverage per occurrence based on the following enrollments:

          • 1–200 students: $2,000,000
          • 201–500 students: $3,000,000
          • 501+ students: $5,000,000
          Artifact Evidence of adequate vehicular liability insurance based on student enrollment
        4. Transportation Attendance Requirement

          Attendance is taken and recorded before children board a vehicle for transportation on a field trip, athletic event, or other school-sponsored activity, and attendance is again taken upon returning to the school after all students have been safely dismissed from the vehicle.

          Artifact Evidence of student attendance taken before and after travel
    2. School Employs and Supervises Appropriate Staff

      The school employs, assigns, mentors, and monitors quality instructional, administrative, and support staff capable by training and experience of fulfilling their specific assigned roles and responsibilities.

      See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
      1. Expectations for School Personnel

        In determining what is conceived to be suitable preparation for assigning administrative and teaching positions in schools accredited by Christian Schools of Florida, specific expectations for personnel exist.

        See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
        1. Personnel’s Walk with God

          A close walk with God is the prerequisite for representing Jesus Christ in the classroom and throughout the school, as demonstrated by active church membership and a lifestyle which is consistent with biblical principles and moral commandments.

        2. Personnel’s Testimony and Sense of Calling

          Teachers, administrator, and staff personnel must be born again with clear testimonies for Christ and must evidence a sense of God’s calling to serve Him in the Christian school.

        3. Personnel’s Affirmation of CSF MIssion and Understanding of Transformation Education

          The teachers and staff must affirm the mission statement of Christian Schools of Florida and its understanding of transformational education.

        4. Personnel’s Relationship with School Community

          The relationships of all personnel with students, parents, colleagues, the administration, and the board must be open and positive, fostering cooperative relationships within the school.

      2. Administrative Staff Credentials

        The school ensures that its administrative personnel have appropriate credentials.

        See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
        1. Head of School Credentials

          The administrative head of school must hold a graduate degree and meet one of the following requirements:

          1. Head of School Certification or Certifiability

            The head of school, in addition to holding a graduate degree, must be certified in educational leadership, supervision, and/or administration, or have earned at least 18 semester hours of credit in educational leadership, supervision, and/or administration either as part of or in addition to that degree.

          2. Head of School Skills, Training, Executive Experience

            The head of school, if not certified in educational leadership, supervision, and/or administration, or has not earned at least 18 semester hours of credit in educational leadership, supervision, and/or administration, in addition to holding a graduate degree, must have specific skills, training, or executive experience; in this instance, the school shall have a qualified instructional administrator or principal with authority to oversee the instructional program and meeting the qualifications of a principal/instructional leader. (ES 6.2.2.2)

          3. Head of School Enrolled in Program

            Administrative heads of schools that do not hold the required graduate degree, or have not earned the specified credits in educational leadership, supervision, and/or administration, and who serve as the instructional leader of the school, must be actively enrolled in a program that leads to meeting the requirement within three years.

        2. Principal and Instructional Administrator Credentials

          Principals and instructional leaders must meet one of the following requirements:

          1. Principals and Instructional Administrators with Certification or Certifiability

            Principals or instructional administrators, in addition to holding a graduate degree in business, education, or divinity, must be certified or certifiable in administration, supervision, or educational leadership; or

          2. Principals and Instructional Administrators Engage in Program

            Principals and instructional administrators must be actively engaged in a graduate program leading to certification or be certifiable in administration, supervision, or educational leadership within four years of accreditation.

        3. EC Director Credentials CSF Accredited

          Early childhood directors of CSF accredited programs must meet the following requirements: (See Strand 7 Early Childhood for further specifics)

          1. Directors Credential Option

            The EC Director must possess a state mandated Director’s Credential, OR

          2. EC Director BA Option

            Have earned a Bachelor’s degree or higher which includes:
            1) six (6) credit hours in early childhood education/child development, OR
            2) passing the FTCE Subject Area Examination (SAE) for Preschool Education Birth-Age 4 or Pre-Kindergarten/Primary PK-3.

          3. EC Director 10 Clock Hour Requirement

            The EC Director must complete ten clock-hours of in-service training annually.

        4. EC Director Credentials Non-Accredited

          Early childhood directors of non-accredited programs must meet the following requirements:(See Strand 7 Early Childhood for further specifics)

          1. CSF Accredited Program Option

            EC Director must meet the requirements of CSF accredited program directors, OR

          2. HS Diploma Option

            Have a high school diploma, and:

            • Have completed the DCF Introductory Child Care Training, and
            • Complete the DCF “Special Needs Appropriate Practices” course, and
            • Be working towards obtaining an active Staff Credential Verification, and
            • Complete the “Overview of Child Care Management” course within the first year of employment, and
            • Meet the requirements of CSF accredited program directors within two (2) years as a CSF Associate Member school.
          3. EC Director 10 Clock Hour Requirement

            The EC Director must complete ten clock-hours of in-service training annually.

      3. Instructional Staff Credentials

        The school ensures that the Grades K-12 instructional staff have appropriate credentials.

        1. Grade K–12 Teachers with Degree in Field of Teaching

          Teachers in grades K-12 must hold a minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree, and be teaching the major part of the day in the fields for which they are academically prepared, OR

        2. Grade K–12 Teachers with Certificate

          Teachers in grades K-12 must be state or nationally certified in the field of their major assignment, OR

        3. Grade K–12 Teachers with BA Degree and Exceptional Experience

          Teachers in grades K-12 must hold a Bachelor’s Degree and have exceptional experience or expertise in their teaching assignment.

        4. Grade K-12 Non-Degreed Teachers

          If non-degreed, teachers in grades K-12 who possess exceptional experience or expertise may be assigned to disciplines other than English, mathematics, social studies, and science. A school may have up to 20% of FTE teachers designated as this exceptional category in academic classes.

        5. Classical Christian School Teachers

          In Classical Christian schools, teachers of the omnibus component must hold a Bachelor’s Degree in one of the core courses of the component or have a Bachelor’s Degree with exceptional experience or expertise in their teaching assignment.

        6. Rationale to Validate Instructional Exception

          The school head shall provide written rationale of justification to the CSF accreditation chair to validate exceptions exercised for teachers designated as exceptional. (See non-degreed and classical school exceptions)

        7. Grade K–12 Teachers without Supervised Internship

          Teachers who have not completed a supervised internship must be enrolled in a professional training program designed by the school containing the equivalency of 9 credits in professional education and must complete the program within three years.

      4. EC Ensures Appropriate Staff

        The Early Childhood Program ensures that the instructional staff have appropriate credentials. (See Strand 7 Early Childhood for further specifics)

        1. Early Childhood Teachers 2-4 Year-Olds

          Early Childhood teachers of two through four-year-old children in both CSF-accredited and non-accredited schools must meet the following requirements:

          1. DCF Introductory Training

            Must have completed the DCF Introductory Child Care Training, and

          2. Florida Staff Credential Opton

            Have a Florida Child Care Staff Credential, OR

          3. Florida Child Care Professional Certificate Option

            Have a Florida Child Care Professional Certificate (FCCPC), OR

          4. National Child Care Development Associate (CDA)

            Have a National Child Care Development Associate (CDA), OR

          5. EC BA Staff Option

            Have earned a Bachelor’s Degree or higher which includes:

            • six (6) credit hours in early childhood education/child development, or
            • passing the FTCE Subject Area Examination (SAE) for Preschool Education Birth-Age 4 or Pre-Kindergarten/Primary PK-3 or for any age, birth through 6th grade

          6. EC Assistant Teachers

            Assistant teachers of two- to four-year-old children must complete the DCF Introductory Child Care Training.

          7. EC Teachers 10 Clock Hour Training

            Early childhood teachers and assistant teachers must complete ten clock-hours of in-service training annually.

    3. School Engages Staff in Continuous Professional Development

      The school engages all professional staff in a program of continuous professional development.

      See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
      1. Classroom Teacher and Instructional Administrator PD Requirements

        All classroom teachers and instructional administrators engage in professional development, meeting the equivalent of 120 inservice points/hours every five years of employment in one of the following ways:

        • earn six (6) semester credit hours
        • earn three (3) semester credit hours and sixty (60) in-service hours
        • complete one hundred and twenty (120) inservice hours.
          The FLDOE considers the successful completion of Subject Area Exams (SAE) as fulfillment of inservice points. See fldoe.org for further information.

        Artifact Anonymized staff inservice record sample
      2. PD Approval and Documentation

        In-service hours must be approved and documented by the school head or academic principal and kept in the personnel files of the school or on the CSF online Master Inservice Program (MIP).
 (School heads verify inservice points with the FDOE for their teachers wanting renewal of certificates by submitting the CT116 form to the FDOE.)

        Artifacts Evidence of staff professional development School’s Inservice Activities (csfla.org console)
    4. School Provides Sufficient Staff

      The school provides sufficient staff in number to meet the mission, vision and purpose of the school.

      See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
      1. School Provides Sufficient Administrative Staff

        The school provides sufficient administrative staff.

        See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
        1. Administrators for Schools with Fewer than Five FT Staff

          A school employing fewer than five full-time teachers has one assigned teaching administrative officer with a minimum of 20% release-time to perform administrative duties in a professional and effective manner.

        2. Administrators for Schools with Five to Fourteen FT Staff

          A school employing five to fourteen full-time teachers (or an equivalent with use of part-time teachers) has an assigned administrative officer with at least 50% release time to perform administrative duties in a professional and effective manner.

        3. Administrators for Schools with Fifteen or More FT Staff

          A school employing fifteen or more full-time teachers has an assigned full-time chief administrative officer and, if necessary, sufficient administrative support staff to perform administrative duties in a professional and effective manner.

        4. Administrators for Separate Campuses

          Schools maintaining facilities on separate sites have an assigned administrator at each site in accordance with the standard listed above.

      2. School Provides Sufficient Instructional Staff

        The teaching faculty must be of sufficient number and its work distributed in a manner so as to implement the full program of the school satisfactorily. Attention must be given to the appropriateness of class size and teacher-student ratio insofar as they relate to acceptable teaching conditions, methods and student loads. The school’s program and instruction must be so designed that it meets the abilities, needs and interests of individual students consistent with the philosophy of the school.

        Artifacts School Staff (csfla.org console) Teacher Class Schedules
      3. School Provides Sufficient Support Staff

        The school must be sufficiently staffed in all necessary administrative and instructional support areas to promote its professional, efficient and safe operations. (Support staff may include instructional, secretarial, clerical, maintenance/custodial, transport, and food service personnel.)

        Artifacts List of support staff School Staff (csfla.org console)
    5. School Budgets and Raises Sufficient Financial Resources

      The school budgets and raises sufficient financial resources to enable the ongoing implementation of the mission, vision and purpose of the school, and its improvement plan. [Note: While specific items from time to time will have to be delayed or modified due to the absence of sufficient resources, normally the budget of the school should reflect the importance and priority of the School Effectiveness and Improvement Plan (SESIP) by assigning sufficient funds to achieve its accomplishment.]

      See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
      1. Fundraising and Resource Development Documented

        The school’s fundraising and resource development activities are documented and handled in a legal, ethical, and professional manner.

        Artifact Evidence of specific fundraising efforts or support
      2. School Liability Insurance

        The school is covered by liability insurance.

        See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
        1. Premises and Vehicular Liability

          Premises and vehicular liability insurance provides $1,000,000 coverage as a minimum and, based on student enrollment, provides a minimum amount of umbrella coverage as follows:

          • 1–200: $2,000,000
          • 201–500: $3,000,000
          • 501–up: $5,000,000

          Artifacts Evidence of adequate vehicular liability insurance based on student enrollment Evidence of premises insurance based on student enrollment
        2. Property Insurance

          Sufficient property insurance to cover the value of the school’s existing contents and structure(s), which may be provided through a commercial policy or through self-insurance. Documentation of coverage is maintained, either through a commercial policy or an ongoing line item in the operating budget of the school.

          Artifact Evidence of sufficient property insurance
      3. School Compensation Policies

        The school’s compensation policies (including salary schedules and other benefits) are available to and understood by the employees.

        Artifact Copy of school salary schedule and other benefits
      4. Participation in Federal Social Security Program

        The school must participate in the Federal Social Security Program.

        Artifact Evidence of participation in Federal Social Security Program
      5. Sound Fiscal Management

        The school avoids situations considered by Christian Schools of Florida to be violations of sound fiscal management:

        Narrative required if non-compliant with any Explanatory Standards 6.5.1–9 See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
        1. Excessive Liabilities

          Current liabilities in excess of current assets

        2. Absence of Debt Repayment Plan

          Absence of a definite plan for repayment of debt, including the payment of the principal, as well as the interest

        3. Inability to Repay Debt

          A debt in such an amount that the school does not have the ability to repay.

        4. Excessive Balloon

          A substantial portion of overall debt with provisions for a “balloon” repayment

        5. Payable On-Demand Debt

          A debt that is payable on demand to the lender

        6. Delinquent Contracted Debt

          Any significant delinquent contracted debt that is owed to a staff member, officer, or trustee of the school, as well as late payments of salaries to employees and/or payments to vendors

        7. Consecutive Yearly Deficits

          Three consecutive years of operation at a deficit (greater than 3% of budget)

        8. Deficit without Plan to Reverse

          A deficit evidenced by the end of the year financial statements without a plan to reverse the trend or eliminate the deficit

        9. Enrollment Downtrend

          Any significant downtrend in enrollment without justifiable reasons

    6. School Provides Board D&O Protection

      The school provides protection for board members through directors and officers liability insurance (D&O), and school personnel through adequate liability insurance.

      Artifact Evidence of D&O policy
    7. School Conducts Financial Transactions within Best Practices

      The school conducts all financial transactions within CSF’s suggested best practices audited accounting system, including an annual financial report reviewed by a licensed CPA using one of required monitoring methods. The CPA may not be a member of the faculty, staff, or governing board of the school.

      Narrative required if non-compliant with any Explanatory Standards 6.7.1–2 See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
      1. Annual Financial Review

        The school’s finances are reviewed and documented annually by an outside licensed CPA using one of the following:

        • a financial review
        • a compiled financial statement
        • a reviewed financial statement
        • an audited financial statement

        The financial documentation from the previous fiscal year is be presented to the accreditation team during the year of accreditation or re-accreditation. (Christian Schools of Florida reserves the right to require an audited financial statement sealed by an outside Florida-licensed CPA.)

        Artifacts Copy of financial review or compiled, reviewed or audited financial statement Current Year Operating Budget *
      2. Professional Accounting Practices

        At a minimum, the school adheres to professional accounting practices by having the following procedures performed, as applicable. (See Form MF-6, “Best Practices Financial Management” in Reference & Resources at Manage SESIP.)

        Narrative required if non-compliant with any Explanatory Standards 6.2.1–10
        1. Adoption and Review of Budgets

          There is a timely adoption of budgets and periodic review of budgets and actual results.

        2. Segregation of Accounting Functions

          Accounting functions are properly segregated.

        3. Expenditures Documented and Reviewed

          Expenditures are adequately documented and reviewed by the proper supervisory official prior to rendering payment.

        4. Invoices Paid

          Invoices are timely paid.

        5. Invoices Voided Properly

          Invoices are voided to avoid duplicate payments.

        6. Authorized Check Signatures

          Checks are only signed by authorized individuals.

        7. Two Signatures Required

          The school has an acceptable policy for when two signatures are required.

        8. Receipts Deposited and Posted

          Receipts are timely deposited and posted to the school’s accounting system.

        9. Tuition Receivables

          Tuition receivables are monitored and policy is in place for uncollectible accounts (policy exists for who determines when a tuition receivable is written-off and such transactions are properly documented).

        10. Bank Reconciliations

          Bank reconciliations are performed in a timely manner and periodically reviewed by someone other than the preparer (for example: finance manager, headmaster, board treasurer).

    8. School Utilizes Written Emergency Action/Security Plan

      The school utilizes a written emergency action/security plan with periodic training of all personnel and students and with regularly scheduled practice drills.

      Artifact Crisis Management Plan and School Lockdown Plan *
    9. School Maintains Student Record System

      The school maintains a secure, accurate, and complete student record system that guards against unauthorized manipulation of data, and complies with institutional, state, and federal policies and regulations; the student record system is housed in a secure and fire-resistant facility and/or in electronic format at a secure location off campus, and contains permanent and current records showing each child’s name, address, parent or guardian’s name(s), telephone numbers (home, work and emergency), attendance, birth certificate or notarized affidavit of birthdate, physicals and immunizations, cumulative academic progress, periodic progress reports to parents, and individual results on standardized tests.

      Artifacts Evidence of student health & immunization records * Evidence of student records system
    10. School Adheres to Content and Release of Information Laws and Ethics

      The school adheres to all legal and ethical considerations regarding the content and release of information to the public.

      Artifact Evidence of procedures for release of information to public
    11. School (if defunct) Transfers Student Records

      The school shall transfer, should the school become defunct, all permanent information contained in student records to the district school superintendent of the public school district in which the private school was located; or shall transfer that information to the executive director of Christian Schools of Florida (FL Statute 1002.42).

      Artifact Statement of destination school district for student records transfer
    Artifacts
    * Required

Accreditation Strand #7
Early Childhood

Child Development and Learning

  1. The early childhood school program addresses all domains of child development and learning, including spiritual, intellectual, social, emotional and physical growth. The curriculum, teaching strategies, and environment reflect research-based knowledge about the way children develop and learn. The school provides a safe, positive learning environment in which children can experience the wonder of God’s world through developmentally appropriate activities.

    Early childhood programs that are exempt from licensing under FS402.316 shall be subject to these standards.

    Standards

    Artifacts
    * Required
    1. Early Childhood Program Complies with Health and Safety Standards

      The Early Childhood Program successfully demonstrates compliance with the Early Childhood Health and Safety Standards as evidenced by an up-to-date inspection by CSF using the EC-1 Checklist or by regular state inspections for schools operating in home-rule counties, state-licensed schools, or school participating in School Readiness.

      See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
      1. EC Notarized Statement Assuring HSS Substantial Compliance

        The program shall send an annual notarized statement by October 1 of each year assuring substantial compliance with the health and safety requirements of Christian Schools of Florida. The statement should be sent via email to the early childhood director of Christian Schools of Florida, using form EC-7.

        Artifact Copy of Annual Notarized Substantial Compliance Statement
      2. EC Inspection Schedule and Fee

        The program shall be visited ONCE each year in the fall annually for inspection by a representative of Christian Schools of Florida. Schools with VPK or Gold Seal programs will be inspected TWICE each year with an additional visit in the winter/spring. Schools will be invoiced $100.00 per visit each year. This fee must be paid within thirty (30) days of receiving the invoice for the visit.

        Artifact Evidence of HSS inspection by CSF, or by state if licensed, or by county if home-ruled
      3. EC Inspection Travel Expenses

        Persons conducting visits to early childhood programs to assure compliance with CSF standards will be paid travel expenses from the inspection fee. The CSF inspector shall use Miscellaneous Form-4 CSF Expense Voucher [located at Inspect a School>MF-4 CSF Expense Voucher] and present the expense voucher to the CSF Bookkeeper for payment.

      4. EC Not in Compliance with HSS

        If not in compliance with the Christian Schools of Florida EC health and safety requirements, the program shall normally be given ten (10) working days to come into compliance, unless it is a serious issue endangering the safety and/or health of children. If the latter, the program shall be given at the determination of the inspector from one (1) to five (5) working days to come into compliance.

      5. EC Associate Member Failing Compliance with HSS

        If a program operated by a school holding associate membership in Christian Schools of Florida fails to come into compliance after the time period stipulated in the previous item, its certificate of exemption from licensing shall be revoked and the Department of Children and Families will be notified that the program’s qualification from exemption from licensing has been revoked.

      6. EC Accredited Member Failing Compliance with HSS

        If a program operated by a school holding accredited membership in Christian Schools of Florida fails to come into compliance after the time period stipulated in the previous item, it shall be placed immediately in “Probation Status” by Christian Schools of Florida, its certificate of exemption from licensing shall be revoked, and the Department of Children and Families will be notified that the program’s qualification for exemption from licensing has been revoked.

    2. Early Childhood Program Utilizes Developmentally-Appropriate Practices

      The Early Childhood Program, in implementing the curriculum, utilizes developmentally-appropriate practices which address each individual child’s spiritual, social, emotional, physical, and academic growth.

      See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
      1. Early Childhood Program Meets Instructional Division Requirements

        The Early Childhood Program meets specific requirements for instructional divisions in Early Childhood Programs.

        Narrative required if non-compliant with any Explanatory Standards 7.1.1–4 See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
        1. EC Two-Year-Old Division

          The EC Program for two-year-olds should first provide the child with a sense of security. Emphasis should be placed on the experience rather than the outcome or mastery of skills. Daily schedules should be flexible, while maintaining a general routine. A well-maintained diapering area must be provided, which adheres to state requirements.

        2. EC Three-Year-Old Division

          The EC Program for three-year-olds places more emphasis on social interaction among the children and less on academic skills. A variety of activities utilizing interest centers, units and thematic topics in a combination of group and individual instruction are included. The different developmental levels and needs of each child are taken into consideration.

        3. EC Four-Year-Old DIvision

          The EC Program for four-year-olds should be similar to the program for three year olds, with more emphasis on kindergarten readiness, while still utilizing interest centers, units and thematic topics in a combination of group and individual instruction. The different developmental levels and needs of each child are taken into consideration.

        4. EC Five-Year-Old Division

          The EC program for five-year-old kindergarten within an early childhood center, is varied and flexible, emphasizing academic readiness and social interaction. It demonstrates a balance of play, discovery, manipulation and participation, and takes into consideration the different developmental levels and needs of each child.

      2. Early Childhood Program Meets Specific Curriculum Requirements

        The Early Childhood Program meets specific requirements regarding the selection and implementation of the Early Childhood curriculum.

        Narrative required if non-compliant with any Explanatory Standards 7.2.1–31 See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
        1. Curriculum Guide

          The curriculum used by an early education program consists of written goals and objectives drawn from researched-based developmental benchmarks. It is reviewed on an annual basis.

        2. Lesson Plans

          Instructional staff develop lesson plans for each class/age group that reflect the goals and objectives of the curriculum. Plans are developed through consultation and shared ideas with other colleagues who communicate frequently to ensure smooth operations.

          Artifact Samples of class- and grade-level Lesson Plans
        3. Balanced Program

          The curriculum is designed to meet the physical needs of each child. The curriculum includes a balance of indoor and outdoor play opportunities to enable the children to develop gross-motor skills.

        4. Motor Skills

          The curriculum results in lesson plans that provide opportunities for children to develop fine- and gross-motor skills.

        5. Social/Emotional Development

          The curriculum and environment provide opportunities to foster the social/emotional development of children through respectful interactions with children by frequently, making eye contact and using clear, correct language patterns, and affectionate, supportive words. Staff-child interactions are an integral part of the social development of children’s emotional development which is exemplified by a supportive and comfortable environment where they can be relaxed, happy, and involved in play and other activities.

        6. Balanced Activities

          The curricular practices provide for a balance of active and quiet activities including large-group (teacher-directed), small-group (teacher/child-interactive), and individual-choice (child-initiated) activities throughout the day.

        7. Length of Group Times

          The length of group times is appropriate for the age and development of the children in the class. In mixed-age groupings, accommodations and flexibility meet the needs of each age group included in the class.

        8. Use of Transition Activities

          Staff uses transition activities to move the children from one activity to another throughout the day. Transitional tools may include songs, poems, or other signs that children recognize as signaling a change of activity.

        9. Materials and Equipment

          Ample developmentally-appropriate materials and equipment are provided to support the learning objectives of the program’s scope and sequence. Materials and equipment may include but are not limited to manipulatives, puzzles, building materials, musical instruments, creative art materials, sand and water tables, dolls, and other props that support the educational objectives.

        10. Small and Large Group Instruction

          Ample opportunities for children to interact independently, in small groups and in large groups, are provided in order to help meet social/ emotional needs of children.

        11. Involving the Children

          Instructional staff initiates interaction with children who are not engaged in order to stimulate and expand the involvement of these children in the classroom offerings.

        12. Healthy Nutrition in Curriculum

          Curricular plans include ensuring children learn about healthy nutrition through experience and instruction, as appropriate to the program.

        13. Good Health Practices

          Children are made aware of good health practices. Methods may include the use of related daily routines by teachers, teacher example, visits to health facilities or from health care professionals, and other curricular presentations appropriate to the program’s curriculum.

        14. Disciplinary Policies and Practices

          The program’s discipline policy is clearly articulated in a written document. The policy employs interactive procedures such as redirection, reflective listening, adult role modeling, and positive reinforcement. Corporal punishment or demeaning practices are not used.

          Artifact Discipline Policy & Practices
        15. Hand-Washing and Cleanliness

          Hand-washing techniques are appropriately taught as part of the curriculum. Specifically, hand-washing always precedes eating, and children regularly wash hands after bathroom use and outside activities.

        16. Proper Use of Media and Technology

          Media (especially videos) is used on a limited basis, and is used particularly for the reinforcement of a teaching topic.

        17. Receptive and Expressive Language Experiences

          Receptive and expressive language experiences appropriate to the development of children are provided throughout the day. Children in the preschool classes are provided with increased exposure to print and active experiences that support the development of listening and speaking concepts and skills.

        18. Vocabulary and Comprehension Development

          The instructional staff consciously works to help children develop vocabulary and comprehension. They verbally interact with the children to guide them in the acquisition of new and expanded vocabulary, in anticipating outcomes, and in comprehension of what they have heard. This may include (1) “What if?” type questions to help children anticipate outcomes, (2) recall of a story, and (3) other verbal interactions that help the children understand sequence (building memory), interaction between characters, etc.

        19. Phonemic Awareness

          Children begin to develop a phonemic awareness through understanding that words are made up of a combination of sounds. Lesson plans reflect a variety of songs, finger plays, stories, and games that have rhyming words and alliteration to strengthen phonemic awareness.

        20. Alphabet

          Children are exposed to the form and function of the alphabet through opportunities such as tracing shapes, copying or writing letters, and practicing writing names.

        21. Mathematical Activities

          The instructional staff plan activities that expose children daily to math activities such as sorting and classifying concrete objects; recognizing and identify likenesses and differences; recognizing first, middle, and last; using opposite concepts such as long and short, in and out, up and down, over and under, and top and bottom; and using concepts of quantity, such as more than and less than.

        22. Mathematical Concepts

          The instructional staff plan ample opportunities for children to be exposed to basic math concepts such as numbers and numeration through counting; placing objects in one-to-one correspondence; grouping objects by color, shape, or other characteristics; patterning; and recognizing numbers in their environment.

        23. Sensory-Rich Environment

          The early childhood classroom is a sensory-rich environment, and it includes numerous objects and organisms with which the students can interact. Opportunities are provided throughout the day for children to use their senses for observing and learning about objects, events, and organisms. Instructional staff help children to perform simple investigations and to describe their observations.

        24. Advancement of Social Skills

          Instructional staff promotes the advancement of social skills and positive dispositions by offering numerous opportunities for children to learn about themselves and others.

        25. Communication and Interaction

          Instructional staff foster positive communication and interaction as preschoolers actively engage in a variety of such learning experiences as taking turns, playing simple small-group games, and performing daily routines.

        26. Cultural Diversity

          Instructional staff provide opportunities and activities that expose children to cultural diversity.

        27. Library

          Early education programs may have either a centralized or decentralized library utilized by the children. The library should contain a minimum of 10 quality, hard bound books per child. Selection of the books shall be determined in accordance with the developmental needs of the young child. Early childhood stand-alone programs are exempt from library/media personnel qualifications.

        28. Musical Experiences

          The curriculum daily provides age-appropriate opportunities to expose children in each age group to a variety of musical experiences—including child-initiated ones—such as singing, listening, rhythmic movements, and playing rhythm instruments.

        29. Creative Arts

          The curriculum daily provides opportunities to expose children in each age group to a variety of age-appropriate creative arts experiences—including child-initiated ones—such as painting, gluing items together to create art, cutting for design purposes, combining mediums, molding with clay, and creating one’s own stories, plays, and other dramatic activities.

        30. Curriculum Involvement and Training

          Instructional staff is trained in the use and deliverance of the curriculum. Opportunities for instructional staff to share their suggestions and ideas regarding the curriculum are provided regularly and at least annually.

          Artifact Evidence of staff professional development
    3. Early Childhood Program Uses Developmentally-Appropriate Assessment

      The Early Childhood Program ensures that the children’s progress is measured through the use of a variety of developmentally-appropriate assessment techniques and reported with supporting documentation.

      See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
      1. Continuous Student Assessment

        Continuous Student Assessment: Ongoing assessment of children’s progress takes place and is used to plan activities for individual children and for groups of children. Children’s progress is reported with supporting documentation.

        Artifact Samples of continuous student assessment
      2. Variety of Assessment Techniques

        Variety of Assessment Techniques: The program recognizes that instructional improvement, as evidenced by the progress of children, requires the use of multiple tools for assessment. Assessment should include such tools of evidence as the following:

        • Samples of children’s concrete learning explorations (writing and art projects) and sketches of constructions with blocks or sand
        • Photographs, audio recordings, and videos of children engaged in play while alone and while in groups in a variety of situations and of children otherwise engaged in interactions with others
        • Written observations such as time and event samplings of children’s interactions, individual and group activities and language while alone and in groups
        • A checklist of developmental levels and behaviors, on which to mark children’s progress and increasing capacities across time
        • Observations that address all areas of children’s development—that is, the seven intelligences, not just cognitive development
        • Results of screenings and formal assessments
        • Individual portfolios that contain a wide array of these records and other documentation and that aid teachers in using flexibility to adapt lesson plans
        • Written assessment tools shared with parents

        Artifacts Checklist of developmental levels and behaviors Individual portfolios Results of screenings and formal assessments Samples of children’s writing and art projects
      3. Providing for and Using Trained Observation

        The director ensures instructional staff are either qualified to observe children and record these observations or have aid from personnel trained in methods of observing children and recording these observations. Results of observations are used for curriculum planning after identification of each child’s stage of development, and parent/guardian conferences.

        Artifact Written observations by trained staff
      4. Use of Age-Appropriate, Research-Based Assessment Tool

        An age-appropriate, research-based assessment tool is used to identify the developmental levels and growth of children.

        Artifact Evidence of Age-Appropriate, Research-Based Assessment Tool
      5. Observations Address Child Development

        Observations of children by staff address all areas of children’s development, including but not limited to multiple intelligences, learning styles, learning preferences, and spiritual and character development.

        Artifact Written observations by trained staff
      6. Observations Address Learning Styles

        Observations of children by staff address the various learning styles, multiple intelligences, and learning preferences. Staff then use these observations to incorporate classroom activities that address the individual needs, strengths, and preferences of the children in their care.

        Artifact Written observations by trained staff
    4. Early Childhood Program Partners and Communicates with Parents

      The Early Childhood Program initiates, develops, and maintains a partnership with parents through an ongoing system of communication including conferences, parent involvement, training, and referrals to community resources.

      See Explanatory Standards for artifacts
      1. EC Parent/Guardian Visits Are Encouraged

        The program encourages visits by parents/guardians to the school’s premises following guidelines established by the school for parent visitation. Policies governing parent/guardian involvement (e.g., visiting, observing, and volunteering) are in place to ensure the partnership between home and program is maintained.

        Artifact Evidence of parent visitation policy
      2. EC Parent/Guardian Handbook

        Parents/guardians of the children in the program receive a parent/guardian handbook that includes but is not limited to (1) the philosophy statement regarding the care and education of young children attending the program, including what discipline techniques will be used; (2) policies regarding holidays, illnesses, hours of operation, fees, refunds, enrollment, and termination procedures; and (3) an explanation of the program’s day-to-day functioning. Parents/guardians sign a statement acknowledging that they understand and support the program’s policies as outlined in the parent/guardian handbook.

        Artifact Student Handbook *
      3. EC Communication with Parents

        Administrators and staff communicate with the parents/guardians in a variety of ways on a regular basis: (1) daily and weekly by verbal communication or posted information; (2) monthly by newsletter and/or classroom calendar of events; and (3) through electronic communication media.

        Artifacts Copy of daily, weekly and monthly communiques/newsletters Evidence of school information management system
      4. EC Parent/Guardian Conferences

        Conferences with each child’s parent(s)/guardian are offered at least twice per year—and at other times as needed—to discuss the child’s developmental progress, personal care, and education. During these conferences, summaries of the results of child observation forms used during scheduled observations of the child are shared with parents/guardians. Parents/guardians are encouraged to participate in the goal-setting process for the child. Conference schedules accommodate working parents/guardians.

        Artifact Evidence of parent/teacher conferences
      5. EC Significant Behavioral Pattern Changes

        Significant changes in a child’s pattern of behavior and/or physical condition are reported to the parent(s)/guardian(s), documented, and placed in the child’s file.

        Artifacts Anonymized documentation of significant behavioral pattern changes Evidence of addressing diverse learning needs (eg ESE/SWD, gifted)
      6. EC Parent Training Programs

        Parent Training Programs: The program director plans and implements regularly scheduled parent/guardian programs that support parents/guardians in their parenting role and reinforce the mission of the program. These programs take place at least quarterly.

        Artifact Evidence of parent training programs
      7. EC Director Collaborates with Community Services and Resources

        The director is familiar with community services and resources regarding children with specific needs and provides this information to parents/guardians. The director and staff work collaboratively with community agencies in providing information as needed.

        Artifacts Evidence of addressing diverse learning needs (eg ESE/SWD, gifted) Evidence of use of community services & resources
      8. EC Stakeholder Survey

        All early care and education program stakeholders are given the opportunity to complete a survey in which they’re asked to evaluate the quality of program administration. An electronic or paper survey form is sent along with an explanation of the purpose for the survey as an integral part of the program and solicits their full participation. Stakeholders are asked to return the completed survey either electronically or through a sealed response in an enclosed, pre-stamped or addressed envelope.

        Artifact Early Childhood stakeholder survey and results
    Artifacts
    * Required
accreditation strands section-outer accreditation cf section-outer