By Megan R.
The Family Foundation School has undergone many changes since its creation.
In an effort to continue the progress, FFS administrators wanted an outside opinion on what could be done to improve the school. On October 22, 2008, two representatives from The Joint Commission, called surveyors, came to evaluate FFS.
Surveyors Elaine Black and James Viggiano Jr., spent three days at FFS. They chose a number of students and spoke to them about the school, as well as the staff that interacts with these students on a regular basis.
They also looked at the school’s standard operating guidelines and made sure they were being followed.
The surveyors were impressed with The Family School and described the lifestyle led by students and staff as being “positive, unique, and refreshing.”
The Family School received accreditation from The Joint Commission. “There is no inspection agency out there that is as well-recognized as the Joint-Commission,” said Dr. Rita Argiros, Vice President of Administrative Affairs.
The Joint Commission is the most reputable private accrediting agency in the country. Their job is to look at the policies and procedures that the school sets fourth for itself, and make sure that they are living up to their word. They stress safety and quality when looking at a school, therapeutic program, or medical facility.
What does this mean for The Family School? Accreditation lasts for three years. The Joint Commission can inspect the school at any time during these three years to make sure that it is living up to its word. To help keep track of this, FFS named staff member Donna Broce as Compliance Officer to make sure the school meets all the standards that apply.
The accreditation from an organization such as The Joint Commission is by no means required. The Family School chose them, above any other accrediting agency, because of their emphasis on continuous improvement. They have the greatest scrutiny, highest standards, and are the most well known.
