Overview
The second edition of Connecting the Dots of Accreditations offers a significant update, with approximately 35% new content and comprehensive revisions to the original text. This edition expands its scope with timely new chapters on generative AI and educational technology—featuring a contribution by Christian Talbot, CEO of the Middle States Association—as well as critical topics such as social-emotional learning, the politicization of accreditation, diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), international accreditation, and the rise of online and hybrid schools. As the only published book focused exclusively on K–12 school accreditation in the United States, this volume remains an essential resource for educators and school leaders navigating an evolving educational landscape. Co-authors Barry R. Groves, President of WASC and a seasoned superintendent with four decades in California public education, and Marilyn S. George, WASC’s Executive Vice President with over 40 years of accreditation leadership, bring unparalleled insight and expertise to this essential guide.
Full Product Details
Author: Barry R. Groves ,
Marilyn S. George
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc
Imprint: Rowman & Littlefield
Edition: 2nd edition
ISBN: 9781475874839
ISBN 10: 1475874839
Pages: 176
Publication Date: 19 March 2026
Audience:
Professional and scholarly
,
Professional & Vocational
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Active
Availability: Manufactured on demand
We will order this item for you from a manufactured on demand supplier.
Reviews
Schools are besieged with disparate requirements and initiatives from above and below. Groves and George provide a roadmap to use accreditation to create a consensus around one schoolwide action plan owned by the umbrella plan. Accreditation can be the basis of coherence and alignment of school policies and operations. It can replace many complex and broad district and school plans that pull and push schools in different directions. Also, Groves and George provide details on how to implement this integrated plan. -- Michael Kirst * professor emeritus at Stanford University, served 12 years as president of the California State Board of Education. * In today's ever-evolving educational landscape, ensuring quality and accountability in our schools has never been more critical. In Connecting the Dots of Accreditation, Marilyn George and Barry Groves delve deep into the intricate web of accreditation processes, illuminating the pathways that lead to enhanced educational standards and student success. This second edition builds upon the foundation of the first, offering fresh insights, updated strategies, and real-world examples that empower school leaders to navigate the complexities of accreditation with confidence. -- Edgar Zazueta * executive director of the Association of California School Administrators * Under the leadership of Dr. Barry Groves and Dr. Marilyn George, WASC has ensured that all schools have the appropriate guidance to continue to improve their respective educational programs. WASC has evolved the Self-Study process to support the diverse needs of schools and communities to allow celebrations where possible while ensuring that schools reflect on their programs to guarantee the best outcomes for all their students. They have embraced the unique challenges with innovation and high levels of support to schools seeking to achieve and maintain accreditation. -- Hugo Sanchez * program director of Pioneer Technical Center at Madera County, California * In a time of change, recognizing the importance of constant improvement in student learning as the one constant, Connecting the Dots of Accreditation celebrates the self-reflection of practice and the evolution of student learning as the center of our work. Marilyn George and Barry Groves provide the framework needed to build capacity for growth by using data to create action plans that remain fluid and focused on student success school. -- Barbara Lawrence-Emanul * associate director at the Learning for Life Charter School, California. *
Author Information
Barry R. Groves has been the President of WASC for six years after a 40-year career in public education in California, with the last 23 years as school superintendent. He is a graduate of the Graduate School of Education at Stanford University. He has published widely Marilyn S. George has served in school accreditation for over 40 years, with her current position being the Executive Vice President of WASC. She received her doctorate from UCLA and has published widely on professional development, mentoring, and accreditation.
