Certifications & Partnerships
Overbrook School for the Blind works with respected accrediting organizations and community partners to strengthen the quality of our educational programs, support continuous improvement and expand opportunities for students.
Middle States Accreditation
Overbrook School for the Blind is proud to be accredited by the Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools.
Middle States accreditation confirms that OSB meets established standards for educational quality and is committed to fulfilling its stated mission, philosophy and objectives. It provides students, families and the broader community with confidence that the school’s programs and operations have been evaluated through a rigorous, independent process.
What Accreditation Means
Accreditation is a voluntary process through which a school evaluates the effectiveness of its educational programs, leadership, operations and student outcomes.
When Middle States accredits a school, it affirms that the school has met prescribed standards within the context of its own mission and educational goals. Accreditation reflects confidence in a school’s performance while also encouraging continued growth and improvement.
For OSB, accreditation represents an ongoing commitment to:
- Delivering high-quality educational programs
- Supporting meaningful outcomes for students
- Evaluating schoolwide practices and performance
- Identifying strengths and opportunities for improvement
- Maintaining accountability to students, families and the community
A Commitment to Continuous Improvement
The primary purpose of the accreditation process is to improve education for students.
As part of this process, OSB periodically conducts a comprehensive self-evaluation of the school’s programs, practices and operations. Independent education professionals then review the school’s findings and provide an impartial assessment of its overall effectiveness.
The process is not limited to identifying areas that need improvement. It also helps OSB recognize effective practices, build upon existing strengths and develop thoughtful plans for continued progress.
1
Self Evaluation
OSB reviews its programs, outcomes and schoolwide practices.
2
Independent Review
Education professionals assess the school’s effectiveness and progress.
3
Continued Growth
OSB strengthens successful practices and addresses opportunities for improvement.
Partnerships That Strengthen Our Mission
OSB collaborates with educational institutions, healthcare providers, government agencies, nonprofit organizations and community partners to enhance services and create opportunities for students and families.
These partnerships may support areas such as:
- Educational programming and professional development
- Healthcare and low-vision services
- Transition, employment and independent living
- Research and innovation
- Family support and community outreach
- Arts, athletics and recreational opportunities
PA Chartered Schools
To expand access for students with visual impairments.
Penn-Del AER
PA-DEChapter of the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired.
Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services
Helps Pennsylvanians with vision loss gain skills for independent living and employment in their communities.
Building Stronger Opportunities Together
Accreditation and partnerships help OSB maintain high standards, strengthen our programs and respond to the evolving needs of students who are blind or visually impaired, including those with additional disabilities.
Through evaluation, collaboration and shared expertise, OSB continues to build meaningful opportunities for students, families and the broader community.
Every student’s path is different.
Our commitment is the same.