Accreditation

QSI International School of Bishkek has been accredited by the Middle States Association since 2000.

Middle States accreditation is a multifaceted evaluation process that schools and school systems voluntarily use to demonstrate they are meeting a defined set of research-based performance standards. The 12 Middle States Standards for Accreditation are: mission; governance and leadership; school improvement planning; finances; facilities; school organization and staff; health and safety; educational program; assessment and evidence of student learning; student services; student life and activities, and information resources. 

The accreditation process begins with a self-study that is conducted by the school or school system and requires input from school leaders, teachers, parents and students. Following the self-study, a team of volunteer educators from Middle States member schools conducts a peer review visit.

QSIB is proud of its accreditation with MSA. Below are some of the main reasons why our accreditation matters:

Accredited schools engage in a 12-18 month comprehensive self-study process on all aspects of the school programs and operations. This full self-study occurs once every 7 years, but the process also requires periodic reviews at least annually. QSIB is currently completing its self-study for a fall 2021 visit from MSA.

Our school invited in a team of peer-educators from other accredited schools to conduct an on-site review of all aspects of our school program including our mission, teaching and learning, and student well-being.

The accreditation process requires the involvement of staff, students, parents, and other community members in the self-reflection, team visit, and goal setting for the future.

As an accredited school, we commit to sending out our own teachers/administrators to serve as peer reviewers on accreditation teams to other schools. Therefore, our teachers bring back new ideas and best practices from other schools, which helps our teaching continually evolve and improve.

MSA accreditation validates that a school meets internationally recognized standards of quality. It also affirms that a school represents itself honestly in its stated mission and values.

Planning for the future is a major part of the accreditation process. We are committed to continuous improvement as evidenced through the objectives we have set as a part of our plan for growth and improvement.

Accreditation is an optional process—it is not mandated by the government. Our school has made the deliberate decision to seek accreditation and has committed to meeting the standards and expectations of the Middle States Association.

MSA accreditation is recognized across the U.S. and around the world. The accreditation status of a school can also be a requirement for eligibility for some grants and scholarships, as well as university admissions. MSA is also recognized by the Department of Education as a gatekeeper for schools offering Title IV funding.