Accreditation
Pacifica Christian High School is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. W.A.S.C. is one of six regional associations which accredit public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the United States. The Accrediting Commission for Schools has the responsibility for accreditation of all schools below the college level in California, Hawaii, East Asia, and the Pacific Basin. Included are elementary, junior high/middle, high, and adult schools whether public, private, or church-related. Over 2,900 such schools are currently accredited by the Commission. A full term of accreditation is six years. Approximately 500 schools go through the accreditation process of self study and external team visits with subsequent Commission action each year, in order to be initially accredited or to renew a term of accreditation.
What does accreditation mean?
Accreditation certifies – to other educational institutions and to the general public – that an institution meets established criteria or standards and is achieving its own stated objectives. W.A.S.C. and the other five regional associations in the United States grant “institutional accreditation” after a comprehensive self study which is followed by an on-site evaluation of the programs and services of the total institution. This grant means that all diploma or degree programs and educational activities offered by the institution are covered by the institution’s accreditation.
The evaluation determines whether or not the institution qualifies for regional recognition. More importantly, periodic self-study, appropriately termed “Focus on Learning,” and review promote improvement in educational quality and institutional effectiveness.
Pacifica’s status
Pacifica Christian is accreditd by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges through June of 2015.
Accreditation terms
W.A.S.C. – The Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Visiting Team – The group of educators that will visit and evaluate the school
Focus on Learning – The self study process outlined by W.A.S.C.
Self study – The detailed written report that the school creates
Click here to view the WASC Action Plan Summary for 2009
Click here to view the Strategic Plan
The WASC Visiting Committee Schoolwide Areas of Strength
1. Pacifica's passionate, knowledgeable staff furthers the school's purpose through their dedication to promoting lifelong learners in and out of the classroom.
2. Strong and dynamic leadership supports staff and empowers them to maximize learning for all students through active participation in the decision-making process.
3. There is a focused vision, mission, and purpose for Pacifica. It is embodied by leadership and embraced by the school community. ESLR's (Expected Schoolwide Learning Results) are well-integrated into the education program and lives of students.
4. There is strong school board and constituent support to ensure an excellent academic program. The Board of Trustees and administrative team have developed a strategic plan to advance learning and positively impact students' lives.
5. Throughout the school community, many quality relationships define the school's environment with a genuine feeling of enthusiasm and energy for learning. The school community effectively communicates the values of respect, trust, and professionalism.
6. Diversity of the student population is clearly visable.
7. A financial assistance program provides a quality education to students of all economic backgrounds through an established endowment for financial aid.
8. A rigorous and relevant college preparatory liberal arts curriculum, with a variety of offerings in the arts, advanced placement and honors encourages critical thinking and effective communication.