CPSS thanks PAM GRAY-BENNETT, Director of the Commission, who leaves CPSS and NEASC at the end of June 2009 after more than 22 years of service, most of which has been as Director.  In addition to shepherding member schools through three major reviews of the Standards for Accreditation, Pam's significant work with Commission members, with the educational leaders of the six New England states and their school boards, and with numerous partnerships, alliances, and state departments has set the national standard for public school accreditation. Countless secondary school students across New England attend better schools because of Pam's tireless, relentless, and enthusiastic efforts to promote the Standards.  A heartfelt thank you and best wishes to you, Pam!

FROM THE DIRECTOR

The continued strength of CPSS membership is directly related to the reputation of the Commission as a leader in school improvement through an accountability system that is fair, supportive, and directly tied to research based best practices.  In effect, the Commission has carved out a unique purpose for school accreditation as an accountability system:  voluntary improvement of professional practice tied to research and informed by impartial peer review. 

The success of CPSS attests to the dogged professionalism of schools in New England that want to improve how they teach and assess learning, how they lead, and how they use resources.  CPSS accreditation affirms the uniqueness of schools and the deep belief of New England public secondary schools that they deserve to be entitled to managing and being held accountable for school improvement grounded in professional practice.

Pamela Gray-Bennett

GEORGE EDWARDS APPOINTED ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR BY BOARD OF TRUSTEES

A long-time New Hampshire educator, George Edwards will assume his role as Associate Director in July 2009;  Mr. Edwards is currently the founding principal of Bedford High School, NH, and he was the founding principal at Bow HS.  A headmaster/principal since 1988, Mr. Edwards brings significant experience in teaching and learning to CPSS.  Mr. Edwards replaces Charles McCarthy, who retires in May 2009, after seven years of service as Associate Director and five years of service on the Commission.