Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) Superintendent Jon R. Gundry announced today that the district’s two alternative high schools, Rose City High School and the Center for Independent Studies (CIS), have earned a six-year accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), one of six regional accrediting associations in the United States.
The six-year accreditation, one of the top levels of accreditation given, acknowledges the quality of educational programs and affirms that the schools have met rigorous, research-based standards for student learning and school performance.
“Rose City and CIS offer high quality alternative education programs that address the needs, strengths and learning styles of students who struggle in traditional high school settings,” said Superintendent Gundry. “I am very pleased that WASC recognized the good work and commitment of the staff, students, families and community partners to consistently provide academic excellence and improved student achievement.”
WASC accreditation certifies that the school demonstrates the capacity, commitment and competence to support high-quality student learning and ongoing school improvement. Graduation from an accredited high school is required for admission by most colleges and universities and to receive financial aid.
“As educators, our first step is to help students identify and develop their areas of strength. We then engage them in academics through project-based learning models that blend classroom instruction with technology,” said Jack Loos, the principal of Rose City High School and CIS. “I am thrilled that WASC has validated the academic rigor and the tailored approach that the teachers and staff of Rose City and CIS have embraced working with students who do better in an alternative school environment.”
The six-year accreditation for Rose City High School and CIS require a mid-cycle progress report and a one-day visit. The WASC assessment included a report, a rigorous period of self-study and a visit by a team of educational experts to evaluate the school’s programs and operations and the impact on student learning. The process identified the schools’ areas of strength and areas that require follow up.
