What Is Accreditation and Why Does It Matter?

Accreditation is a formal process through which an independent organization evaluates a school to ensure it meets established standards of academic quality, governance, and continuous improvement. It provides families with confidence that a school’s programs, curriculum, and operations have been carefully reviewed and meet recognized benchmarks of excellence.

Highlands Glen Academy holds regional accreditation through the Middle States Association (MSA), the highest level of accreditation a private school can achieve. Regional accreditation is widely recognized by colleges, universities, and institutions worldwide, giving families assurance that their child’s diploma and credits will be respected and transferable wherever their educational journey leads. In addition, the school is accredited by Accreditation International (AI) and recognized by the National Council for Private School Accreditation (NCPSA), further affirming its commitment to academic excellence, accountability, and continuous growth.

For families, accreditation means trust, credibility, and opportunity; ensuring that students at Highlands Glen Academy are prepared for college, careers, and future success with as many doors open to them as possible.

Accreditation Information

Middle States Association (MSA)

"The Middle States Association Commission on Secondary Schools is an accrediting agency for certain secondary and post-secondary non-degree granting schools located inside or outside the United States, including but not limited to its states, commonwealths, and territories” The Commission on Secondary Schools is now recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a gatekeeper for eligibility for Title IV funding for postsecondary, non-degree granting institutions and distance education throughout the United States.

Accreditation International (Ai)

Accreditation International (Ai) is unique in the field of accreditation, as not only does Ai accredit in five fields of education – schools, career and technical, distance education, early childhood, and supplementary education, it also encourages and works “hands-on” in partnership with countries in the development of new accreditation organizations. Ai has a cadre of experienced accreditation leaders and review team members from all over world, speaking dozens of different languages and representing various cultures.

National Council for Private School Accreditation (NCPSA)

The National Council for Private School Accreditation is dedicated to the accreditation process as a viable and responsible means of establishing a witness of school excellence. NCPSA is committed to accreditation based on the concept of voluntary peer recognition; that is, the principle that institutions sharing common purposes and distinctives are better able to assist one another in achieving the standards for academic excellence and responsiveness to their respective publics and the nation.