The Richmond County School System has received its 5-year accreditation by AdvancED. This is a significant achievement for the system and is a result of an examination of rigorous research-based standards to see how well the RCSS is meeting the needs of learners. Each standard was rated on a scale ranging from 1 (needs improvement) to 4 (exceeds expectations). The Richmond County School System scored as follows:

• Exceeds Expectations – 16

• Meets Expectations – 8

• Emerging – 6

• Needs Improvement – 1

The AdvancED Engagement Review team has the option to recognize Powerful Practices during their review. Teams are not required to recognize practices and do so infrequently. The RCSS was recognized for 3 Powerful Practices including the strategic planning process, Superintendent and Board leadership, and community partnerships.

The AdvancED report states, “After reviewing a substantial number of documents, interviewing internal and external stakeholders including students, and participating in presentations and discussions with system leaders, the Engagement Review Team found that the Richmond County School System is already an effective learning organization. Students are well behaved and achieving, leaders are committed, forward-thinking, and open to dialogue, teachers are engaged and supportive of their students, and stakeholders voiced solid support for their schools. Combining the school system’s current plans and goals with the recommendations of the team will hopefully serve as a foundation for RCSS to
continue to focus on improvement throughout the organization and to more fully achieve its mission of ‘Building a world-class school system through education, collaboration, and innovation’.”

Richmond County School System Superintendent, Dr. Angela Pringle, stated, “System accreditation is the result of the hard work of our Administrators, Teachers, Board Members, Directors, and Support personnel. It takes everyone from the bus drivers to our community partners to ensure that our students are receiving a quality education. We are very pleased with this report from AdvancED as we feel that it highlights the achievements and dedication of our employees and stakeholders.”