ACSI Accreditation

Accreditation with ACSI engages schools in a vigorous, holistic process of organizational appraisal and improvement that engages every school constituent. The program is a highly regarded Christian program for member schools. They have partnerships with all of the U.S. regional accreditation agencies and offer joint accreditation with numerous accrediting organizations.

Accreditation is a great way to assess your school’s performance in foundational areas of Christian education:

• Bible Knowledge and Biblical Worldview
• Academic Excellence
• Life Skills and Practical Application of Knowledge
• Character building and Spiritual Formation.

Key Benefits of Accrediting Your School through ACSI:

• Parents seeking the best Christian education for their children know your school is committed to excellence.
• Accredited Christian schools may receive state funding (state laws vary).
• Students graduating from accredited Christian schools qualify for admission to most colleges and universities, and credits transfer between schools nationally and internationally.
• The accreditation process (and annual renewals) employ both self-assessment and peer reviews to help you evaluate whether your school is fulfilling its mission and meeting academic standards established by the international school community.
• Instruction at your school will improve through a continuous process of self-assessment designed to result in increased student achievement.

Major Commendations

• Major Commendation # 1
  Successfully navigating a transition from a church sponsored school to an independent school during a time of significant administration transition. (Indicator 1.1) HCA has successfully navigated a transition from a church sponsored school to an independent school. They have maintained a strong kingdom minded relationship and connection with the previously sponsored church by collaboration and resource sharing as well as a commitment to the vision and mission for the Bethel Park Community. (administration interviews; board interviews; HCA policy manual; self-study)
• Major Commendation # 2
  The administration and board of HCA are exceptional models of Christ centered leadership in dedication to discipleship, education, and school wide excellence. (Indicator 2.2) After years of administrator transitions, HCA has a strong biblical administrator with passion and vision for the school and local community. Dedication to excellence and improvement are evident in new policies, faculty-staff relations, board support, admissions, and development. (board and administration interviews; self-study)
• Major Commendation # 3
  The faculty, staff, and administration of HCA demonstrate their commitment to Christ and to their calling to the Christian school ministry as they interact with the entire school community. (Indicator 4.1) A lifestyle that reflects their expressed commitment is affirmed by their pastor’s recommendation, signing the statement of faith, and the love and care displayed on the campus. (observations, personnel files)
• Major Commendation # 4
  HCA has established dual enrollment with Carlowe College and Geneva College. (Indicator 5.4) Expanding upon the implementation of AP and honors classes several years ago, the school now offers college level classes to give students a head start in their college education. (self-study; classroom observations)
• Major Commendation # 5
  HCA staff have created a culture of Christlike respect, compassion, and caring for one another which is taught and modeled. Evidence of the Christian mission is shown in the cohesiveness of the faculty and staff. (Indicator 7.2) As noted in the school’s self-study, the staff displays a family atmosphere of mutual care, support that is undergirded by a love of and commitment to Christ. There is consistency between what is being taught and how the teacher’s lives are lived out on a daily basis. (Faculty interviews; staff interviews; classroom observations)