June 15, 2008
McCann Treatment Center, home of the Tundra Swan Academy in Bethel (YKHC file photo).
Tundra Swan Academy recognized as accredited school
by Danielle Dizon, Public Relations Staff
After nearly two years of organizing its school to meet state education standards, the Tundra Swan Academy at the McCann Treatment Center is now recognized as an accredited education institution by the Northwest Association of Accredited Schools.
"We are extremely proud of this accomplishment," said Jaimie Kassman, Director of the McCann Treatment Center. "Offering an education for each of our clients is an essential part of our program."
The McCann Treatment Center is a Residential Psychiatric Treatment Center for youth between the ages of 10 and 18. The facility specializes in care for youth with substance abuse and serious emotional and behavioral problems. The program offers a structured setting for clients to receive an education during their stay.
"Our clients who enter the program are either behind in school or have not been attending school for various lengths of time. We want to help them get back into school and learning," added Kassman.
The three-year accreditation notice was received in May. As a private school, TSA's accreditation allows educational credits to be fully transferable to other school districts. "Our goal was to be an accredited school," said Kassman. "We had to closely examine our system and implement teaching plans, a grade system, library and, most importantly, a standards-based curriculum."
Kassman worked with Les Daenzer, a member of the state accreditation committee and Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Programs at the Lower Kuskokwim School District to meet standards set forth by the state. "Under such unique circumstances we were able to design an education system to meet the needs of our clients," said Kassman. "Mr. Les Daenzer's guidance was pivotal in assisting us to meet the state criteria," added Kassman.
The school, which has been in operation for seven years, offers a well-rounded, standards-based curriculum that includes Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, Yup'ik Language, Health, Physical Education, Native Arts and Crafts, and Science & Subsistence Education. Staffed with two certified teachers, educational technicians, and an Elder counselor, the program works closely with students to meet individual educational needs.
As a supplement to direct instruction, computer-based instruction is also offered, which includes: ALEKS Math, STAR Math, Math Facts in a Flash, Accelerated Math, Accelerated Reader, STAR Reading, and Perfect Copy.
"We strive to meet both the treatment and educational needs of our clients and prepare them to be successful in the educational setting when they leave our program," said Kassman.
