We Are Fully Accredited!

“Based on a set of rigorous research-based standards and evidence-based criteria, the accreditation process examines the whole institution–its policies, programs, practices, learning conditions, and cultural context–to determine how well the parts work together to carry out the institution’s vision and meet the needs of every learner. Accreditation isn’t about passing a one-time inspection. Rather, accreditation recognizes education providers that demonstrate and sustain their commitments to continuous improvement and better learner outcomes.”   -Cognia

Dolphin STEM Academy is accredited by the largest accreditation body in the world–Cognia (formerly AdvancEd), and also by the South Carolina Independent Schools Association.  Cognia and SCISA insist on a relentless pursuit of excellence for the institutions they accredit.  

Why did Dolphin STEM Academy seek dual accreditation at both the state and national levels?  

We are dual accredited to maintain our commitment of excellence to our students and STEM community!  One of the advantages of accreditation is that it is recognized across the US and worldwide.  This means that your grades and transcripts will be accepted at other educational institutions across the country and worldwide!  

So why does accreditation matter?

Accreditation is designed to certify schools that have demonstrated achievement of quality indicators and continuous improvement.  Dolphin STEM Academy’s accreditation means that our online elementary, middle, and high school have achieved a high level of performance by meeting a rigorous set of performance standards, assurances, and protocols.  Accreditation protects the interests of students, parents, academic institutions, and the community.

Another advantage of accreditation is that students from accredited schools can gain greater access to federal loans, scholarships, postsecondary education and military programs that require students to attend an accredited institution.

Schools participating in accreditation benefit from shared expertise and powerful professional learning through local and global workshops, training, conferences, and personalized service. Accredited schools commit to raising student performance and accountability. 

When a school receives  accreditation, they will move beyond the internal metrics, rating systems, and discussions pertaining to continuous school improvement, and submit their educational environment to a rigorous process of analysis and evaluation. Requiring a vested third party to review a school’s systems and processes helps to ensure that the program is following and engaging in challenging, standards based, and evidence based curriculum and instruction.

Check out our personalized online private school programs!

• Accredited Online Elementary School

• Accredited Online Middle School

• Accredited Online High School