Full Accreditation
NFC Academy is Fully Accredited
It is our goal at NFCA to continuously have a program of excellence in education from a biblical worldview for our students and their families.
Regularly we are reviewed by our accreditation partners for their evaluation of our programs and services for our homeschool families. We count it as a privilege for the process to improve our offerings and services to you. We are a Christian School to meet the needs of families like yourself that support your family values while providing you all that is needed for such a commitment to excellence in academics.
ACCREDITATION
Accreditation Partners for NFC Academy
Cognia – Southern Association of Colleges & Schools (SACS)
From Cognia’s handbook on accreditation, “Systems and institutions seeking to achieve or maintain accreditation understand, honor and embrace the concept of continuous improvement. These systems and institutions are engaged every day in a journey of improvement. They are dynamic and continuously evolving, with an unrelenting focus on becoming better on behalf of the students they serve.”
SACS-CASI is one of the regional accrediting agencies which are a part of the Cognia network for accreditation of elementary and secondary schools. They serve primarily the schools and colleges in the southern United States with a commitment to ongoing learning for students.
Middle States Commission on Colleges and Schools
The Middle States Association is a worldwide leader in accreditation and school improvement. For over 125 years, Middle States has been helping school leaders establish and reach their goals, develop strategic plans, promote staff development and advance student achievement.
The Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools, building on the rich history of the Middle States Association, aspire to improve the quality of education in the United States and around the world by assisting schools to achieve excellence through the process of accreditation, by affirming to the public a member school’s trustworthiness and commitment to continuous improvement, by providing the network and resources for the promotion of proven practices.
Florida Association of Christian Colleges & Schools
The Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (FACCS) is a voluntary service organization, providing an association for Christian schools, Christian colleges and universities, homeschool groups, and homeschool families. Started in 1968, it is the oldest, state-level association of Christian schools in the nation.
With offices in Tallahassee, NFC Academy has been an accredited member of FACCS since it began serving homeschool families in the United States and around the world.
National Council for Private School Accreditation
The National Council for Private School Accreditation is dedicated to the accreditation process as a viable and responsible means of establishing a witness of school excellence. NCPSA is committed to accreditation based on the concept of voluntary peer recognition; that is, the principle that institutions sharing common purposes and distinctives are better able to assist one another in achieving the standards for academic excellence and responsiveness to their respective public and the nation.
FAQs
Is accreditation important for homeschool?
Accreditation is a significant factor when considering homeschool options. It assures that a school’s curriculum, standards, and educational practices meet established criteria set by recognized accrediting bodies. For homeschooled families, choosing an accredited program can provide several key benefits. This includes credibility, academic quality, and smoother transitions for students moving into higher education or other schools.
Accredited homeschools, like NFC Academy, undergo rigorous evaluations by accrediting agencies to make sure they offer a curriculum aligned with academic standards. This evaluation process means that the courses offered are academically sound and meet the expectations for college preparatory education.
For parents, accreditation offers peace of mind that the educational materials and methods are structured and validated. This structured oversight is especially important as many parents may not have the time or expertise to develop their own curriculum that meets all academic benchmarks.
Another advantage of accreditation is its role in enhancing the acceptance of homeschool transcripts and diplomas by colleges and universities. Many higher education institutions prefer or require applicants to have completed their education through accredited programs. It demonstrates that the student’s academic record comes from a reputable source.
Accredited homeschools like NFC Academy also provide services such as transcript management and academic counseling. Additionally, an accredited diploma can help students gain access to scholarships and financial aid that might not be available to those from non-accredited programs.
In some states, homeschooling regulations may necessitate that students enroll in accredited programs to fulfill legal education requirements. By choosing an accredited homeschool, families can make sure that they meet state guidelines while offering their children a flexible learning environment that retains academic integrity.
How does accreditation benefit homeschool families?
Accreditation offers homeschool families several distinct advantages. It provides both assurance of quality education and ease of transition for students pursuing further educational opportunities. When a homeschool program is accredited, it means that the curriculum, teachers, and educational practices have been reviewed and approved by an independent accrediting agency.
One of the primary benefits of accreditation is credibility. Families can be confident that the education their children receive aligns with nationally recognized standards. Accredited homeschools like NFC Academy, follow rigorous academic guidelines.
This makes sure that students receive a quality education that is comparable to traditional schools. It’s important for parents who may not have the time, expertise, or resources to develop a fully complete curriculum on their own. With an accredited program, families can trust that the education is on par with expectations for each grade level.
Another significant advantage is the recognition of credits and diplomas. Many colleges, universities, and other educational institutions require that students have completed an accredited program to be eligible for admission.
Homeschool students who attend an accredited academy can apply to colleges without concerns about the validity of their education. This accreditation can also ease the transition should students need to re-enter a public or private school system at any point. Accredited programs are typically accepted for transfer credits without issue.
In addition, some scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities are only available to students from accredited schools. An accredited homeschool diploma not only validates the student’s education but also opens up opportunities for financial assistance that might otherwise be limited to traditional school students.
Can international students benefit from NFC Academy's accreditations?
Yes, international students can benefit greatly from NFC Academy’s accreditations. As a private, accredited Christian school offering K-12 college preparatory programs, NFC Academy’s accreditation makes sure that students, regardless of their location, receive a recognized and credible education that meets high academic standards.
For international students, this is particularly valuable as accreditation can influence a student’s eligibility for higher education institutions and future career opportunities.
NFC Academy is accredited by Cognia (formerly AdvancED). Cognia is recognized globally for maintaining rigorous educational standards. This accreditation signifies that our curriculum, teaching methods, and overall academic environment meet quality standards accepted by educational institutions worldwide.
For international students, this means the diploma they earn from NFC Academy is recognized in various countries. This makes it easier to apply to colleges and universities in the United States and abroad. Furthermore, the NCAA’s approval of core courses makes sure that student-athletes pursuing post-secondary education have the necessary academic credentials to participate in college athletics.
Another key benefit for international students is NFC Academy’s flexibility and accessibility. Since the Academy offers an entirely online curriculum for grades 3-12, students from any part of the world can enroll and complete their studies without having to relocate.
With 24-hour access to coursework, students can work according to their time zone and pace. This helps accommodate the challenges of distance learning across different countries. This flexibility when combined with a high-quality, accredited education makes us an excellent option for international students seeking a Christian-based education.
How often is NFC Academy reviewed by its accreditation partners?
NFC Academy is regularly reviewed by its accreditation partners to maintain its high academic standards and guarantee continuous improvement. As a fully accredited Christian school, NFC Academy undergoes systematic evaluations by several respected accrediting bodies.
Our partners include Cognia (formerly AdvancED), the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools (SACS), the Middle States Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools, the Florida Association of Christian Colleges & Schools, and the National Council for Private School Accreditation. These reviews are essential for maintaining the school’s credibility and making sure that its programs remain aligned with both academic standards and its commitment to a biblical worldview.
Cognia is one of NFC Academy’s key accreditation partners. According to Cognia’s guidelines, accredited schools must engage in continuous self-assessment and external evaluation to make sure they are providing students with a quality education.
The review process includes both annual internal evaluations and periodic external reviews. These external reviews generally occur every five years, but they may also involve interim reviews. This depends on the accrediting body’s requirements. For example, the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools (SACS) guarantees its accredited schools consistently meet rigorous standards.
NFC Academy views these accreditation reviews as an opportunity to refine its programs and better serve homeschooled families. The reviews cover a wide range of areas including curriculum quality, faculty qualifications, student performance, and overall school operations.
They also evaluate how well the academy integrates its Christian values into its educational offerings. Each review provides NFC Academy with constructive feedback that helps the school continue to progress and improve its services.
Can students outside the United States enroll in NFC Academy?
Yes, students outside the United States can enroll in NFC Academy. The academy welcomes international students and offers fully accredited K-12 programs. It’s an excellent option for families worldwide. For international students, NFC Academy provides an entirely online program for grades 3-12 and a book program for students in grades K-2 (with optional inclusion of grades 3-4 in the book program).
To provide a smooth transition for international students, the academy requires that all previous academic records be translated into English. It also requires them to be aligned with the American educational system for accurate grade placement and credit evaluation.
Families may use a recommended service like Josef Silny & Associates. This guarantees that students’ educational background is properly recognized and integrated into NFC Academy’s system.
Additionally, students must be proficient in English as the entire curriculum and communication with teachers are conducted in English. International students have access to the same resources and support as domestic students. This includes NFC Academy’s extensive online resources like virtual science labs, academic libraries, and teacher support.
Families who prefer a more hands-on approach can allow parents to be the primary teachers for their children in the program. This provides additional flexibility. One important aspect to note is that while NFC Academy provides shipping for book materials to international students, additional costs may apply depending on the destination country. Overall, NFC Academy’s flexibility, global reach, and strong academic support make it a viable option for homeschool families worldwide.
How does accreditation impact the quality of education provided?
As an accredited online Christian school, NFC Academy is held to rigorous standards set by respected accrediting organizations like Cognia, the Middle States Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools, and the Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools. These accreditations make sure that the school adheres to high-quality educational practices and continuously improves its curriculum, faculty qualifications, and administrative processes.
One key impact of accreditation is the assurance that the curriculum meets the necessary academic standards. This includes the content of the lessons and also how the curriculum aligns with a biblical worldview. The accreditation process requires the academy to undergo self-evaluations and external assessments. This helps make certain that students receive an education that prepares them for higher education or careers, along with personal development aligned with Christian values.
Furthermore, accreditation benefits students by making their credits and diplomas widely recognized. Graduates from accredited schools are more easily accepted into colleges and universities. This includes highly competitive institutions and military academies.
Accreditation also helps guarantee that the online school’s educational records will be recognized across states and internationally. This is an important aspect for families who move frequently or live abroad.
Overall, accreditation serves as a quality benchmark. It gives parents confidence that their children are receiving an education that meets academic standards and also supports their Christian faith.
What subjects or programs does NFC Academy offer to homeschool students?
NFC Academy provides various subjects and programs curated to homeschool students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Their curriculum delivers an inclusive, Christian-based education with a strong academic foundation. Students can choose between the book program for grades K-4 and an online program starting from grade 3 through grade 12. These options provide flexibility for both parents and students. It comes with the opportunity for parents to serve as the primary teacher or utilize NFC Academy’s highly qualified teachers.
In the early grades (K-4), the book program focuses on core subjects such as phonics, reading, math, Bible, and health, with colorful worktexts that engage younger students. The NFC Academy Daily Lesson Planner is provided to help guide parents in delivering daily lessons in each subject for a structured and effective learning environment.
For students in grades 3-12, the online program offers a more extensive curriculum covering essential academic subjects such as mathematics, science, history, and language arts. In addition to these core subjects, NFC Academy provides electives like Spanish, music, and health.
These subjects allow students to explore their interests beyond the basic curriculum. The high school program (grades 9-12) also includes NCAA-approved courses. It’s suitable for student-athletes who plan to pursue college sports.
NFC Academy offers different levels of involvement for parents. Parents can choose to serve as the primary teacher for their child or opt for the NFC Academy Teacher Program. This program is where certified teachers provide instruction, grade assignments, and offer feedback. Additionally, the HomeSchool Basics program offers a simplified version of the core subjects for families seeking a simplified approach to homeschooling
Is NFC Academy recognized by colleges and universities?
Yes, NFC Academy is recognized by colleges and universities. Its accreditation helps in making sure graduates are well-prepared for higher education. As a fully accredited Christian homeschool program, NFC Academy’s curriculum meets rigorous academic standards set by organizations such as Cognia, the Middle States Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools, and the Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools. These accreditations aligns the the education provided with the quality expectations of higher education institutions.
Graduates from NFC Academy have successfully been accepted into a broad range of colleges and universities, from junior colleges to top-ranked public and private institutions. The academy’s accreditation guarantees that its courses are recognized as meeting the necessary academic rigor required by colleges.
In particular, NFC Academy’s core high school courses are approved by the NCAA, This means that student-athletes seeking to maintain eligibility for collegiate athletics can confidently enroll in the academy’s program knowing that their coursework will be accepted by the NCAA.
Moreover, the academy’s structured approach to annual testing and standardized assessments also enhances the recognition of its educational quality. NFC Academy students have access to standardized testing. This helps validate their academic performance in comparison to national norms. It also provides additional data points for colleges and universities during the admissions process.
NFC Academy’s accredited status and strong commitment to high academic standards supports our graduates to be well-prepared. This positions them for acceptance into colleges and universities. Our students receive an education that meets or exceeds the requirements of post-secondary institutions.
In the early grades (K-4), the book program focuses on core subjects such as phonics, reading, math, Bible, and health, with colorful worktexts that engage younger students. The NFC Academy Daily Lesson Planner is provided to help guide parents in delivering daily lessons in each subject for a structured and effective learning environment.
For students in grades 3-12, the online program offers a more extensive curriculum covering essential academic subjects such as mathematics, science, history, and language arts. In addition to these core subjects, NFC Academy provides electives like Spanish, music, and health.
These subjects allow students to explore their interests beyond the basic curriculum. The high school program (grades 9-12) also includes NCAA-approved courses. It’s suitable for student-athletes who plan to pursue college sports.
NFC Academy offers different levels of involvement for parents. Parents can choose to serve as the primary teacher for their child or opt for the NFC Academy Teacher Program. This program is where certified teachers provide instruction, grade assignments, and offer feedback. Additionally, the HomeSchool Basics program offers a simplified version of the core subjects for families seeking a simplified approach to homeschooling
Does NFC Academy's accreditation apply to all grade levels?
Yes, our accreditation applies to all grade levels from Kindergarten through 12th grade. We prioritize providing a high-quality, accredited education for all students at NFC Academy. We make sure that every grade level meets rigorous academic standards.
Our accreditation is recognized by reputable agencies such as Cognia, the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, and the Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (FACCS).
Families in our K-4 Book Program or fully online programs for grades 3 through 12 can be assured of the quality of education provided. This accreditation guarantees that every course meets the same high standards. If your child is just starting their education or getting ready for graduation, they will receive a consistent, quality learning experience. Accreditation helps in making sure that the materials, instructional methods, and academic support we provide match with recognized educational practices.
We offer assurance to families who are considering homeschooling by being accredited for all grades. Parents can be at peace knowing that their child’s academic work will be accepted by other schools, colleges, and universities across the nation. This also includes our NCAA-approved courses for high school students.
Accreditation extends to all aspects of our program. This includes teacher qualifications, student assessments, and overall school operations. This continuous evaluation process helps us remain committed to providing an exceptional, accredited educational experience for every student.
Does accreditation ensure a biblical worldview in education?
While accreditation is important for guaranteeing academic standards and the credibility of an educational institution, it does not inherently guarantee a biblical worldview in education. Accreditation focuses on evaluating the quality of education, faculty, student services, and institutional effectiveness.
It makes sure that a school meets established academic benchmarks and provides students with recognized credentials that are accepted by colleges, universities, and employers. However, integrating a biblical worldview in education depends on the institution’s mission, values, and curriculum design.
At NFC Academy, the school’s commitment to a biblical worldview is a core element of our educational philosophy. The academy is fully accredited by reputable organizations such as Cognia, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), and the Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (FACCS). Our biblical worldview is a deliberate choice by the school, not a product of accreditation.
We integrate biblical principles into the curriculum, teaching methods, and overall approach to education. This means that students receive not only a rigorous academic education but also one that is aligned with Christian values.
The curriculum at NFC Academy reflects a Christian perspective. Teachers at NFC Academy are expected to uphold and teach from this worldview. We aim to provide students with both academic knowledge and spiritual guidance. This approach makes sure that students are not only prepared for academic success but are also equipped with a strong foundation in their faith.
What is meant by "continuous improvement" in the context of accreditation?
In the context of accreditation, “continuous improvement” refers to an ongoing process where schools like NFC Academy regularly assess, evaluate, and enhance their programs and services to maintain the quality of education. Accreditation agencies such as Cognia and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) require accredited institutions to actively engage in self-assessment.
External reviews make sure these institutions meet or exceed educational standards. This process is not a one-time event; it is a continuous effort to provide students with a high-quality learning experience that develops with changing educational needs and standards.
For NFC Academy, continuous improvement involves the consistent evaluation of our curriculum, teaching methods, and student outcomes. We do so to guarantee that students receive the best possible education. Through regular reviews by accrediting bodies, the academy can identify areas for growth and make necessary adjustments.
These reviews might include analyzing student performance data and examining the effectiveness of teaching strategies. They also assess how well the academy integrates its biblical worldview into the learning experience.
Additionally, continuous improvement means that NFC Academy stays updated with advancements in technology, educational resources, and teaching techniques. As a school that offers both book-based and online programs, the academy uses feedback from students, parents, and faculty to refine its educational offerings.
The process helps to make sure that the academy is not only meeting current educational standards but also positioning itself to adapt to future challenges and opportunities in education. This constant improvement allows us to maintain high standards and continue delivering an accredited education grounded in Christian values.
What role does accreditation play in NFC Academy's curriculum development?
While we do not develop our own curriculum in-house, we carefully select high-quality, accredited educational materials from trusted publishers. This helps us provide courses that meet the academic standards required by our accrediting bodies. These bodies include Cognia, the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, and the Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (FACCS).
Accreditation requires that the curriculum we use be in line with specific educational benchmarks to promote student success. As part of the accreditation process, we undergo regular evaluations that assess the quality of our curriculum and instructional methods.
Evaluations involve making sure that the materials we provide to students are up-to-date and in sync with recognized academic standards across all grade levels. The accreditation agencies we work with also review our curriculum’s ability to prepare students for college and career readiness. They help guarantee that our offerings remain competitive and relevant.
Furthermore, our accreditation helps guide the integration of our biblical worldview into the curriculum. While we focus on delivering an education that adheres to high academic standards, we also incorporate Christian principles. This approach supports our mission and values.
Our curriculum’s combination of academics and faith-based learning is an integral part of our approach. Our students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for both academic and personal success.
Accreditation shapes how we select and implement our curriculum. This way, our students receive a high-quality, faith-based education that meets national academic standards and prepares them for future success.
What is the difference between regional and national accreditation?
The difference between regional and national accreditation lies in the scope, recognition, and standards set by the accrediting bodies. Both types of accreditations are important in making sure that educational institutions meet certain standards of quality. However, they serve different purposes and have varying implications for students.
Regional Accreditation
Regional accreditation is generally considered the most prestigious type of accreditation for educational institutions in the United States. It is awarded by regional accrediting bodies that oversee schools in specific geographic areas.
For example, NFC Academy is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and by the Middle States Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools. These regional accrediting bodies evaluate institutions based on rigorous academic standards, faculty qualifications, and student outcomes.
One of the key benefits of regional accreditation is its wide recognition, especially by colleges and universities. Credits and diplomas from regionally accredited institutions are often more easily transferable to other schools. They are also commonly accepted by both public and private universities. This makes regional accreditation particularly valuable for students who may be considering transferring credits or pursuing higher education.
National Accreditation
On the other hand, national accreditation is usually associated with institutions that offer vocational, technical, or religious education. These accrediting bodies evaluate schools based on different criteria. It often focuses on the specialized training they provide.
While national accreditation is still a mark of quality, it is generally not as widely recognized as regional accreditation, particularly in terms of transferring credits to regionally accredited schools. (NFC Academy is nationally accredited by organizations like the Cognia (formerly AdvancED) and is a member of the National Council for Private School Accreditation (NCPSA).) These organizations focus on Christian educational standards and the needs of private schools.
What is the process for maintaining accreditation at NFC Academy?
Maintaining accreditation at NFC Academy is an ongoing process. It enables us to continue providing education that meets national academic standards. We are accredited by respected organizations such as Cognia, the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, and the Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (FACCS). These accrediting bodies require us to meet and maintain strict academic and operational standards.
Every five to six years, we undergo a reaccreditation process. This involves a detailed self-assessment in which we evaluate all aspects of our academic programs. This also covers teacher qualifications, student support, technology, and overall school operations.
This self-assessment is then followed by an external evaluation conducted by representatives from our accrediting bodies. These external evaluators review our internal processes, curriculum, teacher performance, and student outcomes.
During this evaluation, we are required to demonstrate that we have maintained academic integrity. We also have to establish that our educational offerings remain coordinated with national and state standards.
Once the external evaluation is complete, we receive feedback that identifies areas of strength and areas for improvement. Based on this feedback, we develop and implement a plan for ongoing improvement. This plan is revisited regularly to confirm that we are making progress. It helps us stay true to our commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience for all students.
In addition to the reaccreditation process, we maintain regular academic follow-up with students, families, and our faculty. This commitment to maintaining and improving our accreditation is what allows us to offer an education that families can trust.
How does accreditation impact NFC Academy's ability to serve diverse learning needs?
Accreditation is important for our ability to serve the diverse learning needs of our students at NFC Academy. As an accredited K-12 Christian school, we are held to high academic standards. These standards establish our curriculum, teaching methods, and support services.
Our accreditation comes from organizations such as Cognia, the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, and the Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (FACCS). It shows that we implement educational practices that are inclusive and adaptable to different learners.
Our programs accommodate varying learning paces and styles. For example, our fully online program for grades 3-12 allows students to progress through their courses at their speed. It comes with the ability to pause, review, and revisit lessons as needed.
This is particularly beneficial for students who need extra time to understand difficult topics or those who wish to accelerate their learning. The flexibility of our program assists students with different learning needs. They can succeed academically without feeling constrained by deadlines or traditional classroom structures.
Additionally, our accreditation requires us to provide various resources and support to enhance the learning experience for every student. Our faculty consists of qualified and experienced teachers. If students need more one-on-one guidance or can work independently, our accredited programs also enable us to offer the appropriate level of support.