Staff Writer
Mayah Collins
TARBORO —
Edgecombe County Public Schools (ECPS) system will have an accreditation visit Monday through Wednesday by a team of representatives from AdvancED (Advancing Excellence in Education) Accreditation.
For the first time ever, ECPS is in the process of applying for accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
On its website, AdvancED describes itself as being dedicated to advancing excellence in education worldwide through accreditation, research, and professional services. Calling itself the world's largest education community, AvancED works with 27,000 public and private schools and districts across the United States.
During the site visit, trained professionals will review ECPS’ documents and performance data. They will also visit the central office, make on-campus visits to six schools and meet with community leaders, educators, parents and others concerned with the district’s success.
All parts of the system will be evaluated, including its vision and goals.
The process will include interviews with board members, administration, community members and local educators to discuss the future of the district. The process is not only designed to help build support for the schools’ vision and goals, but to allow the community to work together in order to achieve positive results for the students.
Representatives will also present objective views of the school system to assist with school improvement and impact student performance.
Throughout the accreditation process, AdvancED will provide resources and tools to help school improvement efforts.
All schools in the school system have been accredited, with the exception of Edgecombe Early College, and that school is an applicant for accreditation.
The accreditation process must be completed every five years.
