Accreditation provides a variety of benefits by verifying that an institution or program has met established standards:
Student Opportunities
Students are able to identify programs that meet standards established by and for their field of interest and to select the program best suited to their needs and circumstances. Through completion of a MACTE-accredited program, students are assured of the broadest possible opportunity for acceptance of their Montessori credentials throughout the nation and world.
Program Assurance
Programs receive support from their affiliate and MACTE when making educational changes to their teacher education program. Self-improvement is stimulated through involvement of academic administrators, faculty, and practitioners in program evaluation and planning, in development of learning outcomes measures and graduate competencies, and in orientation and training sessions offered by the agency. Accreditation ensures that standards represent a consensus of values, and that standards and procedures are fairly and consistently applied. Programs and institutions are also assured of equitable representation in national accreditation activities, through participation by faculty and staff as Commissioners and as on-site evaluation team members.
Guaranteed Quality
The Public is informed of the quality of institutions through a non-governmental system, which places the cost of program evaluation on the profession, rather than the taxpayer. Accreditation is also one of several means used in identifying programs for the potential investment of public and private funds, and for determining eligibility for federal student assistance.
Professional Credibility
The Montessori field gains enhanced credibility through the accountability provided by accreditation. Certifying bodies and state agencies are assisted in the process of issuing professional credentials, registration, or licensure. Because MACTE requires its programs to evaluate the competencies of students and graduates, both before and after they have entered their professional roles, employers have a reasonable means of assessing the quality of the preparation completed by job applicants and employees.
