News

Phillips Academy reaccredited, commended for excellence
in diversity, faculty, outreach and leadership

March 15, 2001 - The Commission on Independent Schools has granted Phillips Academy continued accreditation by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).

The reaccreditation is based on a 205-page self-evaluation report submitted by the academy and a four-day visit to campus in October 2000 by a visiting committee of independent school leaders. In its 58-page report, the Visiting Committee commended:

  • the academy's overall commitment to, and realization of, diversity within the community, especially through leadership positions held by women and persons of color and through an admission and financial aid policy that makes "youth from every quarter" a living fact;
  • the excellence of the faculty, the impressive quality of the senior administrative staff, the commitment to excellence in all areas of school life and the practice of ongoing reflection and long-range and strategic planning;
  • the academy's contributions to the wider community through service learning and outreach programs;
  • the school community's love of the school and ability to deal with a demanding schedule with grace and stability; and
  • the positive, committed and ethical leadership of Head of School Barbara Landis Chase.
In its examination of all aspects of Andover's academic and residential programs, the Visiting Committee also recommended the academy remain mindful of the competing demands on time and the effect of sometimes conflicting schedules on the health and well-being of members of the Phillips Academy community. In response to this recommendation, Chase has charged a committee of faculty, senior administrators and students, chaired by Rebecca Sykes, associate head of school, to address issues surrounding the pace of life at Phillips Academy, beginning in the fall term.

The next scheduled NEASC evaluation visit will be in 2010, although the accreditation will be reviewed in interim evaluation reports in 2002 and 2005.

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Contact: Tana Sherman
Last Update, July 30, 2001
Copyright, Phillips Academy, 2001