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Shrub Oak International School has once again demonstrated its commitment to excellence in autism education and therapeutic support by earning reaccreditation from the National Independent Private Schools Association (NIPSA). Following a comprehensive evaluation by NIPSA’s Visiting Committee, the school has been re-certified with Level III Therapeutic Certification, Academic Accreditation, and an Autism Endorsement for the next five years, through December 2029. This distinguished recognition underscores Shrub Oak’s unwavering dedication to providing individualized education and support for autistic students.
The reaccreditation process involved a meticulous review of Shrub Oak International School’s academic programming, therapeutic services, residential offerings, and overall adherence to the highest standards of educational and clinical practice. The NIPSA Visiting Committee conducted an in-depth site visit and the committee’s findings reaffirmed Shrub Oak International School’s status as a leader in autism education.
Sarah Block, M.Ed., Executive Director of NIPSA, expressed her congratulations in an official letter to Shrub Oak International School, stating: “The Board of Directors of NIPSA, on the recommendation of the NIPSA Visiting Committee, has voted to approve re-certification for Therapeutic Certification-Level III, Academic Accreditation, as well as an Autism Endorsement for Shrub Oak International for a period of five years.” This recognition confirms that Shrub Oak International School remains at the forefront of best practices in special education and therapeutic intervention.
Sydel Morris, MsEd, Head of Programs at Shrub Oak International School, highlighted the significance of this achievement: “This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of our entire team. At Shrub Oak, we remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering the best possible care and education for each student. The Autism Endorsement further validates our unique approach to educating students across the entire spectrum.”
This reaccreditation reaffirms Shrub Oak International School’s mission to empower students through individualized, strength-based, and passion-driven learning. Shrub Oak International School’s multidisciplinary approach ensures that each student receives tailored instruction and therapeutic interventions designed to foster academic success, emotional growth, and independent living skills.
Beyond its NIPSA accreditation, Shrub Oak International School holds prestigious recognitions from other leading accrediting bodies. The school is accredited by the Middle States Association Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS), a globally respected organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for its rigorous standards in school accreditation, ethical practice, and continuous improvement. Additionally, Shrub Oak International School is accredited by Cognia, signifying that the school “meets or exceeds rigorous standards of educational quality and effectiveness.” These accreditations collectively highlight the school’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards of academic and therapeutic excellence.
Shrub Oak International School offers a unique, individualized approach to education, blending evidence-based teaching strategies with comprehensive therapeutic support. Located on 127 gated acres in New York’s Hudson Valley, Shrub Oak International School provides an inclusive learning environment where students thrive both academically and socially. With a highly trained faculty, licensed clinicians, and a full spectrum of therapeutic services, Shrub Oak International School fosters an environment where students build meaningful relationships, develop critical life skills, and prepare for their futures.
Shrub Oak International School’s robust residential program further enhances student development by integrating structured learning with engaging after-school activities. Whether through daily life skills training, experiential learning opportunities, or vocational programming, Shrub Oak International School ensures that each student receives the necessary personal support to maximize their potential.
Shrub Oak International School’s reaccreditation by NIPSA also recognizes its comprehensive student support services, which are essential to fostering academic and personal growth. The school’s full-time clinicians provide individualized counseling, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and behavioral support to address each student’s unique needs. Through a transdisciplinary approach, faculty members collaborate to develop personalized learning plans that integrate therapeutic interventions seamlessly into the curriculum.
The Autism Endorsement by NIPSA is particularly significant, as it highlights Shrub Oak International School’s specialized expertise in educating autistic students across a broad range of abilities. This endorsement reflects the school’s commitment to evidence-based interventions, sensory-friendly environments, and personalized social-emotional learning strategies that enable students to develop confidence and independence.
In addition to its academic and therapeutic programs, Shrub Oak International School places a strong emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement. Students participate in off-campus learning opportunities, including internships, volunteer programs, and field trips that provide real-world experiences and life skills development. Shrub Oak International School’s partnership with local businesses and organizations ensures that students have access to diverse learning environments that prepare them for future educational and vocational pursuits.
Extracurricular activities play a vital role in student development at Shrub Oak International School, with programs such as Photography Club, Podcast Club, and Student Council fostering creativity, leadership, and social interaction. These activities are designed to build confidence and allow students to explore their passions while developing essential life skills.
Shrub Oak International School’s reaccreditation is not only a recognition of past successes but also an opportunity for continued growth and improvement. Shrub Oak International School remains committed to a philosophy of continuous quality improvement, always working to identify programs that can be enhanced and improvements that can be made.
Additionally, Shrub Oak International School is dedicated to ongoing professional development for its faculty and staff. Regular training sessions, workshops, and collaborations with leading experts in autism education ensure that Shrub Oak International School educators and clinicians remain at the cutting edge of best practices in special education.
Shrub Oak International School also seeks to enhance family involvement by providing opportunities for parents and caregivers to engage with their children’s educational journeys. Parent training sessions and interactive family events continue to be integral to Shrub Oak International School’s mission of creating a collaborative and supportive community.
As Shrub Oak International School continues to grow and evolve, its recent reaccreditation by NIPSA serves as both a validation of its past achievements and a catalyst for future innovation. Shrub Oak International School remains committed to enhancing its programs, expanding its services, and furthering its mission of improving the lives of autistic children, adolescents, and young adults.
With a steadfast dedication to excellence, Shrub Oak International School will continue to lead the way in autism education, providing an unparalleled learning environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
For more information about Shrub Oak International School and its accredited programs, visit www.shruboak.org.
