Quality Rating 5: Accreditation
Instructions
To meet the requirements for Accreditation and Rating Scales: Accreditation: ACR 1.5, you will upload:
- A current letter or certificate of accreditation
- Documentation verifying that the requirements of the accrediting organization to maintain accreditation have been submitted when due
Accreditation Certificate or Letter
Accreditation involves a process of reflection and evaluation aimed at demonstrating quality practices and a commitment to ongoing improvement. A program that chooses to pursue accreditation completes a self-study, plans for improvement, participates in a site visit by the accrediting organization, and maintains its accreditation status according to the accrediting organization’s policies. Accreditation processes vary depending on the accrediting organization.
What does the documentation look like?
You will upload the letter or certificate of accreditation your program received from an accreditation organization recognized by MSDE.
NOTE: Programs that are accredited by NAFCC will upload a certificate with the date the program first received accreditation, including any annual renewal stickers.
Documentation of Good Standing
Each accrediting organization outlines specific requirements for programs/providers to maintain a valid accredited status and remain in good standing. These requirements and processes vary by organization and may follow different timelines and formats for reporting.
What does the documentation look like?
You will upload documentation showing that you have met the requirements of the accrediting body to remain in good standing. Some examples of documentation may include:
- Certificate/letter of an annual update
- Email confirmation indicating an update or report has been submitted and/or approved
- Screenshot from accrediting system/portal indicating a report or update has been submitted
- Reports (Midterm, Annual, or other)
- Screenshot showing a valid accreditation status and indication of good standing
Where can you learn more?
- Maryland Accreditation Maryland Accreditation is a voluntary process. A program chooses to pursue self-appraisal, program improvement, and external program review to achieve and publicly confirm that they meet high quality state standards.
