Commitment to Quality Education
Shrub Oak International School proudly announces its achievement of multiple prestigious accreditations, reaffirming its dedication to offering high-quality educational experiences for autistic children, adolescents, and young adults. The school operates a leading therapeutic day and residential program, dedicated to nurturing the unique needs of its students.
Accreditations that Matter
This institution is accredited by the National Independent Private Schools Association (NIPSA), which includes Level III Therapeutic Certification and Academic Accreditation, complemented by an Autism Endorsement. The rigorous accreditation process conducted by NIPSA involves thorough self-assessments and peer reviews that examine every facet of a school's operational practices, governance, and student support systems.
Recognized Standards for Exceptional Education
The Level III Therapeutic Certification mirrors Shrub Oak's proficiency in integrating academic and therapeutic programming tailored for students with complex needs. The Autism Endorsement emphasizes the school's specialized strategies for supporting autistic students through individualized, evidence-based practices, fostering a structured and nurturing environment.
Global Recognition and Continuous Improvement
Shrub Oak International School also holds accreditation from the Middle States Association Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS), a globally acknowledged leader in school accreditation and ethical practices. Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, MSA-CESS's evaluation emphasizes a school’s mission, governance, instructional strategies, student services, and dedication to continuous improvement.
Commitment to Excellence Through Cognia
Furthermore, Cognia accreditation showcases the school's alignment with research-driven best practices and a focus on tangible outcomes, professional development, and sustained effectiveness. By meeting and surpassing these accreditation standards, Shrub Oak International School enhances the reliability and credibility of its academic and therapeutic programming.
Accountability and Responsiveness to Student Needs
Maintaining accreditations involves an ongoing commitment to self-assessment, peer review, and external evaluation. This ensures that the school remains accountable and responsive to the evolving needs of its students and their families.
A Message from Leadership
Andrew Dillenbeck, LCSW-R, MBA, Head of Programs at Shrub Oak International School, emphasizes the importance of these accreditations by stating, "Accreditation is crucial in ensuring excellence and integrity throughout our operations. They validate the quality of our programs, our staff's dedication, and our relentless pursuit of continual improvement for our students' success and safety."
Future Aspirations for Accreditation
Looking ahead, Shrub Oak International School is actively pursuing accreditation from the Joint Commission, an independent, evidence-driven organization dedicated to setting benchmarks for safe, high-quality care through healthcare accreditation. Achieving this level of accreditation would underscore the school’s commitment to excellent therapeutic and clinical practices while reinforcing its holistic approach to education.
About Shrub Oak International School
The mission of Shrub Oak International School is clear: to enhance the lives of autistic children, adolescents, and young adults. By embracing individualized, strengths-oriented learning, the school ensures students foster meaningful relationships and flourish in their communities.
The Pines at Shrub Oak
Adjacent to the school is The Pines at Shrub Oak, a dedicated therapeutic program catering to the unique requirements of adolescents needing intensive psychiatric support, whether or not they carry an autism diagnosis.
Contact Information
For further details about Shrub Oak International School, interested parties can visit www.shruboak.org or get in touch via email.
Frequently Asked Questions
What accreditations does Shrub Oak International School hold?
Shrub Oak International School is accredited by NIPSA, MSA-CESS, and Cognia.
Why is accreditation important for the school?
Accreditation ensures that the school maintains high standards of educational excellence and remains accountable to its students and families.
What is the mission of Shrub Oak International School?
The mission is to improve the lives of autistic children and adolescents through personalized, strengths-based learning.
What additional accreditation is the school pursuing?
The school is seeking accreditation from the Joint Commission.
What therapeutic programs are available at Shrub Oak?
The Pines at Shrub Oak offers specialized therapeutic support for adolescents requiring intensive psychiatric care.