A note on accreditation...

From time to time, we are asked how our diploma will hold up in the world beyond graduation. Maybe you haven't asked this question, but now I've sparked your curiosity? Well, in either case, with today's post I hope to address some of those questions & curiosities!

While The Dome School's Secondary Program issues perfectly legal and valid high school diplomas, The Dome School is NOT an accredited school and therefore does not issue "accredited diplomas". Many schools, including public and private schools, are not accredited. A school becomes accredited by signing up with a private (not state or federal) accrediting agency and jumping through a series of  hoops.  Accreditation usually requires meeting state standards and having defined curricular descriptions, assessments and objectives.

At The Dome School we believe that learning is a unique experience, especially productive when one is fully engaged and interested in one's endeavors. We also feel it is important to remain open and flexible to many styles of teaching and learning depending on the students, families and teachers involved each year. This kind of learning environment does not fit into the box of accreditation, and therefore we are proudly NOT accredited. 

The Dome School expressly makes no claims regarding the acceptance of our diplomas, courses or transcripts by any specific organization. However, our school's unaccredited status should not have a negative impact on a student's admission to colleges, trade schools or career paths.  Students get admitted and recognition from private unaccredited schools and home schools all the time. Our documentation of each student's progress via portfolios and official transcripts alongside our high school diploma provide a strong record and recommendation to assist students in any path they may choose beyond secondary school. 

Information concerning the acceptance of our diploma, courses and/or transfer credits to other schools, whether secondary or higher education, should be directed to the admissions official at the public or private transfer institution well in advance, prior to seeking enrollment in their institution or programs. 

However, keep in mind, when applying for Federal Student Aid for College, The Dome School graduates should check  "homeschooled"  rather than high school diploma. Click here to read why. ​

Still have questions? Contact us for more info! 

That's all for now, 

With Care, 
Kimiko