Eden Autism is proud to announce that the organization has been accredited by the National Commission for the Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES). While this is the fifth time the Eden School has earned accreditation, this marks the first time for the Adult Services program.
Eden remains part of the elite group of fewer than 30 special education programs across the country that have earned NCASES accreditation and an even smaller group of providers whose adult services are now accredited.
“Eden Autism ranks as one of the highest performing organizations meeting the needs of those living on the autism spectrum,” said Shawn Kurrelmeier-Lee, lead site reviewer for NCASES. “Eden Autism’s leadership in the field paves the way for others to replicate their innovative and exemplary programs.”
NCASES is the country’s leading accreditation program for private special education services and was established in 1992 by the National Association of Private Special Education Centers (NAPSEC). The organization was established in response for a need for private special education providers to have an accreditation process that uniquely addresses the programs and the populations they serve.
“During the site review, the team noted that Eden is such a special program, doing amazing things,” said Dr. Rachel Tait, Eden Autism Chief Program Officer. “From teaching, speech and language services, nursing, job placements, behavior support, residential services, and everything in between, Eden really showcases what it means to have a top-quality program. I am always proud to be a part of Eden and the great things that we do to support individuals with autism, but I am especially proud when other professionals are able to identify those great things in just a three-day visit and truly capture who we are and what we do.”
In October, Eden underwent a comprehensive review by NCASES. The process systematically evaluates private special education programs on the basis of an organization’s instructional practices, creative innovation, faculty credentials, diversity and the means to which they ensure a healthy and safe environment that is conductive to special learning.
The NCASES site review team visited the Eden School, our Crossroads Day Center, and four Eden residences. They also conducted interviews with Eden staff, families, case managers, support coordinators, employers, and participants, and students, along with reviewing the significant amount of documentation to support that Eden meets the required standards.
“My colleagues do exceptional work supporting individuals throughout their lifespan, and it is an honor to have other professionals recognize their efforts,” said Michael Decker, Eden Autism President & CEO.
Based on the criteria set forth by the NCASES commission, Eden was lauded for our efforts and teaching methods. The site team had nothing but positive things to say about everyone they spoke to and the programs they observed; in the school, Adult Day, and Residential programs. They spoke extensively to the dedication and commitment of the Eden staff to the students and adults we work with and how the “family” feeling at Eden was a notable presence. This new accreditation period will last for four years.
