Oregon Charter Academy Recognized as International School of Distinction
In our work to prepare all students for success in a global society, we put every effort into delivering a rigorous curriculum that challenges students to excel. We do that in a learning environment where staff provide instruction based on the 4Cs of 21st century skills: Critical Thinking, Collaboration, Communication and Creativity. We take pride in seeing our students advance through grades, and eventually on to graduate to pursue their unique version of success. There is also great reward when we are recognized for our dedication to high-quality education.
We received such recognition recently when Cognia™ presented us with its inaugural international School of Distinction award. Cognia is a global, nonprofit improvement organization dedicated to helping institutions and other education providers grow learners, teachers, and leaders. Only 59 schools and 20 systems internationally were recognized, with Oregon Charter Academy being the only school on the West Coast (including California, Oregon and Washington states) to receive the honor.
Validating Our Commitment to Deliver Outstanding Education
During the 2020-21 school year, Cognia conducted more than 1,200 school engagement reviews for accreditation. As a result, it identified 59 schools and 20 systems that deliver high-quality instruction, consistent organizational effectiveness and a commitment to continuous improvement. In a May 2021 evaluation, Cognia also awarded ORCA with a five-year accreditation for its model of education excellence. The accreditation team gave ORCA a score of 377.5 out of 400. The average score for all Cognia accredited schools, including virtual and brick-and-mortar schools, is 278.34 - 283.33 across the United States and internationally.
“Since we’ve been honing our online educational experience for 17 years, ORCA was prepared to flourish during the pandemic and ensuing educational crisis. Rather than implementing a static, plug-and-play model, our curriculum is dynamic and responsive so all types of learners can thrive from any location, so long as they are Oregon residents, ” ORCA Executive Director Allison Galvin said upon accepting the award.
Striving for the Gold Standard
2021 is the first year for Cognia’s Schools of Distinction award program. The organization wanted to recognize schools and systems like ORCA that truly stand out in their service to learners. In fact, Cognia accreditation is highly sought after by both national and international educational institutions. Its performance standards for accreditation are based on ever-expanding research and understanding of learning, and define high-quality education for today’s world. Once an institution is accredited by Cognia, as we have been, it engages in similar preparation and review every five years to maintain that designation.
Learn More About Online Learning at Oregon Charter Academy
The Cognia School of Distinction award underscores the approach ORCA takes to prepare students to learn, grow and improve. Our academy places emphasis on allowing students to feel empowered and independent through greater freedom of choice as they receive top-flight education from engaged, certified teachers. If you would like to learn more about enrolling your student, contact us today.