Pinellas County Schools has earned the distinction of districtwide accreditation from Cognia, formally known as AdvancED.

With this distinction, all district schools are accredited by Cognia, the parent organization of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

“I am proud that our district has reached this significant milestone. Accreditation provides Pinellas County Schools and every school in the district with a globally recognized distinction of quality,” said Superintendent Michael A. Grego. “It demonstrates our commitment to continuous improvement and provides us with tools and support to become the best we can be for our students and families.”

Earning and maintaining accreditation will help the entire district align and focus its priorities, goals, and actions; and improve systems and processes to better drive student achievement. Accreditation will also provide PCS with performance-based tools and strategies for continuous improvement.

In February 2015, a team of external evaluators for Cognia observed 226 classrooms and met with 468 stakeholders throughout the district. After visiting schools, examining district documents, and interviewing stakeholders who represented staff, district officials and community, the team recommended PCS for districtwide accreditation.