State of Montana Newsroom
Superintendent Arntzen Begins Review of Montana Schools’ Accreditation Information
HELENA – Superintendent Arntzen and Office of Public Instruction (OPI) experts will review and score accreditation information submitted by Montana schools starting on April 15, 2024. In July of 2024, all results will be shared with the Montana Board of Public Education for approval. This year, the accreditation process will be based on the new Administrative Rules of Montana (ARM) 10.55 that were approved by BPE last year. School accreditation standards include rules on curriculum, class sizes, teacher and staff qualifications, Indian Education for All, and student learning assessment to ensure all students receive a quality education.
“The new accreditation rules reflect local accountability and transparency for Montana public schools,” said Superintendent Elsie Arntzen. “This process is based on student and school outcomes, not the simple check-the-box system of the past. Montana is focused on student success and educational excellence through local school innovation.”
The review and scoring process includes training on scoring and each category will be reviewed by two OPI experts. The new accreditation process requires the school to submit a narrative and evidence on assurance standards and performance standards. The assurance standards include:
- Integrated Strategic Action Plan
- School leadership requirements
- Appropriate assignment and licensure of staff
- Number of students in a classroom
- Family and community engagement plan
- Educational offerings
- Indian Education for All
The performance standards include:
- Student learning progression, growth, and proficiency in math and reading
- College and career readiness
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