Fitch High School Is Reaccredited

The Commission on Public Secondary Schools has reaccredited Fitch High School, saying it was impressed by the school’s variety of instruction, assessment of student work and values about teaching and learning.

In a Nov. 18 letter to principal Joseph Arcarese, the commission wrote that it was also pleased to see a “safe learning environment”, visible leadership by the principal, Promethean board in every classroom, and an addition that added science lab space and classrooms.  

The commission also praised the school for its partnerships with businesses, colleges and the military, among others.

The New England Association of Schools and Colleges accredits more than 2000 public and private schools serving students from pre-kindergarten through college.

The commission also made suggestions for Fitch. Recommendations included ensuring that ninth grade students have equitable access to a guidance counselor and creating a formal process to review school values and expectations to make sure they’re based on current research.

School officials have until November 2012 to describe the progress they’re making with the recommendations.

In addition, all accredited schools must submit a two-year progress report, which would be due on Oct. 1, 2013 for Fitch High School.

That report must provide detailed information on other recommendations.

A snapshot of some suggestions for Fitch are listed below:

-  Develop a plan of targeted professional development for staff and provide training for teachers to integrate technology in the classroom

-  Provide a plan to resolve the lack of a science lab preparation and upgrade the older section of the facility

-  Create formal, structured opportunities for teachers to more effectively collaborate on the curriculum and other issues.