St. Brigid School receives NEASC accreditation

St. Brigid School in Portland has received accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). A globally recognized standard of excellence, NEASC accreditation attests to a school’s high quality and integrity.

“We are thrilled to receive this news as it reaffirms what we already knew about our school,” said William Burke, principal of St. Brigid. “It’s a proud day for St. Brigid and the wonderful teachers, students, and school families that work to make it a special place.”

 Accreditation is based on a structured, self-study, which involves the entire school community, as well as a peer review done by a committee of education professionals and experts.

In its findings, the visiting committee and the Commission on Independent Schools of the NEASC commended St. Brigid School for its unmistakable enthusiasm, welcoming spirit, and show of excellence.

“This was evident throughout the school community and notable with the students and their parents. The Commission singled out the faculty for its dedication to skillful teaching and effective student learning,” Daniel Ferris, the NEASC’s director for Accreditation and School Improvement, wrote in a congratulatory letter to Principal Burke. “You, the principal, along with the advisory board, received praise from the committee for your energy and zeal in leading a solidly Catholic school. Your commitment to the mission and students was particularly striking.”

NEASC accreditation also includes recommendations to help schools continue to strive for excellence. Among the recommendations for St. Brigid were formalizing a technology plan, creating a formal, team-based student referral process, and designing a professional development plan for administration, faculty, and staff.

Other NEASC-accredited Catholic schools in the diocese include Cheverus High School in Portland, Mount Merici Academy in Waterville, St. James School in Biddeford, St. Michael School in Augusta, and St. Thomas School in Sanford.