This month, Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy received official notification that the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) has renewed BCHA’s accreditation for 10 years. Founded in 1885, NEASC is the nation’s oldest accrediting agency. The grant came after a period of many months of evaluation by 10 seasoned and veteran educators. They spent long hours at BCHA interviewing parents, students, teachers, administrators and board members and observing school life in action.

The team evaluated the school community and concluded, “In reaching its decision, the Commission particularly commends the entire school community for its strength. The community’s resilience and care embody the school’s mission and values. The love for Israel, pride, and community support were palpable to the Visiting Team. In addition, the Commission commends BCHA for making its mission the cornerstone of all decisions and community interactions. The faculty of BCHA is to be commended for their dedication to the school, the care and love they provide their students, and for prioritizing the physical and emotional well-being of the entire community.”

The Team sensed a creativity of spirit and a positive atmosphere throughout the school. BCHA is a student-centered school in all regards. The report continued, “During our time at BCHA, the Program Visiting Team members were welcomed into the community. The Team was honored to be present for a school-wide assembly expressing support for Israel. Every adult took time from their busy days and myriad responsibilities to talk with us or guide us when we were lost in the hallways. Conversations with faculty, staff, and administrators felt authentic and open. Universally, the team members enjoyed their time at BCHA, recognizing a place where children are valued and cared for deeply. The mission of the school was evident in every aspect of the school.

“We were deeply gratified by the conclusions NEASC reached after a thorough review of all aspects of BCHA’s school and school community,” said Rabbi Tzvi Bernstein, Head of School. “We know that we have something very special and very effective here at BCHA, where our alumni have been prepared for their life experience with an excellent Torah and General studies education and the midot of respect, kindness and leadership. It was nice to receive independent confirmation of our strength from an agency as pre-eminent as NEASC.”