PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — The Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS) recently recognized Lancaster Catholic High School in Lancaster, Pa. for its Program of Distinction in Music.
The Middle States Programs of Distinction initiative provides external validation of an accredited school’s accomplishments in specific areas of expertise and enables schools to take accreditation to the next level.
“Programs of Distinction are models for other academic programs throughout the world,” said Henry G. Cram, Ed.D., president of MSA-CESS. “I congratulate Lancaster Catholic High School for its commitment to music education and for recognizing the importance of the arts as a central component of the curriculum.”
The Programs of Distinction review process helps already accredited schools identify strengths and areas for growth and provides inspiration and recommendations for attaining a high quality program.
MSA accredited schools are eligible to apply for Program of Distinction recognition for outstanding programs in Global Literacies, World Languages, Visual Arts, Music, Early Childhood Education, Service Learning, School Counseling and STEM Education.
The Music Program of Distinction recognizes schools and school systems that that foster within students a deep appreciation for music as an expressive, creative art form and where music education is recognized as an essential component of the social and cultural fiber of society and the school.
“At Lancaster Catholic, we believe that music and the arts are at the core of our human experience,” said Principal Terry Klugh. “As many American schools have eliminated the opportunities offered in fine arts courses, we have broadened and designed our curriculum so there is something for each and every student, from a course on the history of rock and roll to opportunities to join one of our many accomplished performance groups. We are proud that Middle States has recognized this work by naming our music program a Program of Distinction.”
About Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS)
Based in Philadelphia, the Middle States Association is a worldwide leader in accreditation and school improvement. For over 125 years, Middle States has been helping school leaders establish and reach their goals, develop strategic plans, promote staff development and advance student achievement. With more than 2,700 accredited schools and school systems in 34 states and nearly 100 countries, MSA-CESS is proud of its continuing legacy and its ongoing innovations to meet the challenges of improving education in the 21st century.
