• WASC  
     
    WASC News
     
     
     

    Being accredited by a WASC committee is a crucial achievement for any high school. According to WASC, the accreditation “certifies the school is a trustworthy institution of learning and validates the integrity of a school’s program and student transcripts.” It also assures the school community that the school’s purposes are appropriate and being accomplished through a viable education program.

    The committee visited Madera High and examined the school’s academic programs, support and intervention areas, staff and extracurricular activities. Several MUSD employees – from Madera High staff members to administration at the District Office – were interviewed by the WASC committee to gather feedback relative to Madera High.

    A letter sent by Thomas Beecher, chairman of the WASC commission, indicated Madera High was granted a six-year accreditation “after a careful study of the visiting committee report, which noted many laudable aspects of the school.”

    Among the schoolwide strengths listed included:
    • Organizational structure: The committee cited that the career school model allows students to pursue their individual interests while preparing for post-secondary options.
    • Commitment to academic success: All students receive strong and effective early and multiple interventions.
    • Benchmark Testing: The creation of benchmarks ensure a consistent delivery of curriculum, an accurate assessment of student progress and increased student learning.
    • Webgrader: The use of the Webgrader tool enables timely communication with parents and students.
    • Extracurricular activities: Madera High received high marks for a diverse offering.
    • Proactive security: The school promotes a safe and welcoming atmosphere on campus. The anti-gang program also was commended.
    • Focus walks: These allow teachers and administrators to visit classrooms in order to discuss, collaborate and implement instructional best practices.

     

    The six-year accreditation includes a mid-term review, which consists of a written report from the school outlining progress made in implementing the schoolwide action plan, and a one-day visit by a two-member WASC team.