ACCREDITATION CYCLE

 

Inforgraphic of the CIS Accreditation Cycle Timeline

 

Cornerstone Conversations

Cornerstone Conversations are integral to the CIS International Accreditation process, facilitating reflective dialogue and planning between your school and CIS representatives. Through Cornerstone Conversations, you will understand the effectiveness and impact of the Cornerstone expectations, explore areas of strength and development related to the three Dimensions of CIS International Accreditation, and understand the progress of the school's development efforts over time.
 

Preparatory Evaluation

The Preparatory Engagement Visit will be conducted by CIS-led evaluators who are trained and experienced in the CIS International Accreditation process. These evaluators will visit the school to engage in Cornerstone Conversations and confirm the school's readiness for development through CIS accreditation. The school and SSEO will co-construct a plan for the self-study period. The duration of the visit typically depends on the size and complexity of the school, but it generally lasts for three days.
 

Self-Study Process

During the self-study, each school will advance two to four Development Initiatives based on the CIS International Accreditation standards and the school’s strategic priorities. This is a period of development and organizational learning led by the school. At the end of the self-study, the school will submit evidence of the development and organizational learning with reference to the CIS standards.
 

Team Evaluation

The Team Evaluation Visit will be conducted by volunteer peer evaluators who are trained and experienced using the CIS International Accreditation protocol, together with partner agency evaluators in the case of a joint accreditation visit. The evaluators will visit the school to validate its developmental journey and provide feedback. The duration of the visit typically depends on the size and complexity of the school, but it generally lasts for four days. During the visit, the evaluators will engage with the community in professional dialogue, learning walks, and will review the submitted evidence to assess the school's progress toward its aims and standards-referenced development.