Manson High School receives six-year accreditation recommendation

MANSON — Manson High School has received a full six-year accreditation recommendation through the Washington Association of Educational Service Districts accreditation process, with accreditation formally approved by the NCESD 171 Board of Directors on May 27.

The recommendation followed a review of the school’s improvement systems, student achievement data, instructional practices, stakeholder engagement and alignment with district priorities. An accreditation team conducted a site visit May 14 and met with students, staff, families and community members.

According to the accreditation report, reviewers found evidence that Manson High School operates as an interdependent system focused on student learning and post-graduation success. The team also cited alignment between the district’s strategic plan, adopted in June 2025, and daily school operations.

“The message we heard from the review team was simple: stay the course,” Superintendent Tabatha Mires said. “This process affirmed the incredible work happening across our district and reinforced our commitment to ensuring every student graduates future ready. We are grateful for the dedication of our staff, the support of our families, the leadership of our students, and a community that believes deeply in public education.”

During stakeholder interviews, reviewers reported hearing consistent comments about student belonging and support within the district. The report noted opportunities for student leadership, school-family partnerships and efforts aimed at student success.

The review team also highlighted the district’s Graduate Future Ready initiative, systems designed to help students remain on track beginning in ninth grade and efforts to improve outcomes for multilingual learners. Reviewers further noted the district’s four-day school week and its impact on staff collaboration, instructional improvement and student support.

In addition to the accreditation recommendation, the review team suggested continued work in several areas, including onboarding new staff, strengthening alignment with revised state learning standards, refining cell phone expectations and expanding engagement opportunities with Hispanic families. District leaders said they view those recommendations as areas for continued improvement.

“Our staff is deeply committed to ensuring every student feels known, supported, and empowered to succeed,” Manson High School Principal Kamie Kronbauer said. “What makes this recognition especially meaningful is that the accreditation team heard those same experiences directly from our students, families, and community members. We are proud of the culture we have built together at Manson High School—one where every student belongs, every student has opportunities to lead, and every student is being prepared for a successful future beyond graduation.”

District officials thanked the accreditation review team, NCESD 171 and community participants who took part in interviews and focus groups during the review process.