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Imagine this: You’ve discovered the perfect online or homeschool program for your child—one that fits seamlessly into their schedule, meets their unique needs and provides you with the tools to support them every step of the way.
However, there’s one problem: you can’t tell whether or not the institution that provides this program is accredited.
Don’t fall into this trap.
Time and time again, students lose valuable time taking courses from unaccredited institutions only to find out later that their hard work doesn’t count toward future goals like college admission or meeting state education requirements.
But what exactly is accreditation, and why does it matter?
In simpler terms, accreditation means that an institution has been evaluated and approved by a recognized agency for meeting specific education standards. Without it, students may face challenges with college acceptance, transferring credits, or even meeting career requirements.
Now that you know the importance of accreditation, you may be wondering: “How can I ensure that the program chosen for my child comes from an accredited school?”
Keep on reading to find out!
Option #1: Check the School’s Website
The easiest way to confirm accreditation is to visit the school’s website.
Most reputable schools display their accreditation status on their homepage or an “About Us” page. At Strike School, we have a specific page for our Accreditation & Partnerships.
If you don’t see an accreditation status on their site, that could be a red flag. However, the best way to confirm is to contact the school directly. A quick email or phone call can provide clarity.
You can ask them: “Is your school accredited? If so, which agency has accredited you?” It’s key to ask the second question to make sure that the agency they mention is recognized and trustworthy.
Remember, a lack of transparency about accreditation can indicate a problem. If the institution avoids answering your questions or offers vague responses, it may be time to look elsewhere.
Option #2: Verify Accreditation Through Trusted Sources
Even if a school claims to be accredited, it’s a good idea to verify that claim.
Start by visiting the websites of trusted agencies like Cognia or the National Association of Private Schools. These organizations maintain lists of accredited schools. For example, if you search for our school on Cognia’s site, we pop up.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) provide online directories of recognized accrediting agencies. A quick search on their sites can help you confirm whether a school’s accreditation is legitimate.
Pro Tip: Be cautious of fake accrediting agencies. If you encounter an accreditor that you’ve never heard of, make sure to do your research about it.
Why It Matters
Accreditation is a critical factor when selecting an online or homeschool program.
It ensures that your child’s education meets recognized quality standards and opens doors to future opportunities. To recap, here’s how to avoid programs from unaccredited institutions:
- Check the school’s website for accreditation details.
- Verify accreditation through trusted agencies like Cognia, CHEA, or the U.S. Department of Education.
By doing either one of the options (or both) you can ensure that your child’s time and effort are well-spent. If you’re searching for a fully accredited online school for PreK-12 students, click HERE to explore our personalized learning options that prioritize quality education.
