MCS earns accreditation renewal
Bonner County Daily Bee | UPDATED 3 months AGO
A Music Conservatory of Sandpoint student concentrates as he plays the piano. The school recently learned it had earned accreditation renewal through 2031.
Photo courtesy MUSIC CONSERVATORY OF SANDPOINT
The Music Conservatory of Sandpoint has earned renewed accreditation through June 2031 for its performing arts program through the Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges. A mid-cycle review is set for the 2027–'28 school year.
MCS first achieved accreditation in 2013, making it the only accredited school of performing arts in the region. The conservatory meets or exceeds the commission's rigorous standards in everything from faculty qualifications to curriculum design and student achievement. That accreditation demonstrates the facility's continued commitment to excellence in music education, MCS officials said.
“Accreditation opens the opportunity for our students to transfer elective credits at other educational institutions, such as LPOSD and community colleges,” said board member and accreditation advisor Amy Bean. “It also ensures that student progress — from early childhood through adulthood — is measured against nationally recognized standards.”
Accreditation is voluntary for not-for-profit institutions, yet the benefits are essential, MCS officials said.
For students and families, MCS officials said it demonstrates MCS provides the highest standard of performing arts education. For faculty and staff, they said it affirms the value of their dedication to the conservatory’s mission: to instruct and inspire excellence in the performing arts.
After over 15 years of success, MCS graduates have gone on to pursue degrees and careers in music and education at colleges and universities across the region, including the University of Idaho and Boise State University.
In confirming the decision, commission officials opted to grant a six-year accreditation status, the highest commendation available through ACS WASC.
With this renewed confirmation, MCS officials said the conservatory not only continues to stand as the top choice for performing arts education in the community, but offers learning rooted in quality, accessibility, and inspiration for the next generation of musicians.
Fall classes begin Sept. 8, with opportunities for students of all ages.
To schedule an enrollment appointment, stop by the conservatory, 110 Main St., or call 208-265-4444 today. For more information, go to sandpointconservatory.org.