ASA becomes a member of the Council of International Schools

September 16, 2024

The American School of Antananarivo (ASA) is thrilled to announce its membership in the Council of International Schools (CIS)—a global network dedicated to promoting the highest standards in international education. This new affiliation marks a significant milestone for ASA, reflecting our deep commitment to developing socially responsible global citizens and elevating the quality of our educational offerings.

Achieving CIS Membership

The CIS is renowned for its rigorous school evaluation and accreditation process, which sets a global benchmark for excellence in education. ASA’s attainment of CIS Membership signifies our strive to high professional standards and our unwavering commitment to ongoing improvement. To achieve member status, the school was required to:

  • Present Evidence: ASA demonstrated compliance with the CIS Code of Ethics and adherence to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
  • Meet CIS Standards: This included meeting standards in areas such as financial transparency and sustainability, child protection, inclusion, assessment, board governance, student voice, and learning & teaching.
  • Engage with CIS: ASA hosted a half-day virtual visit, during which CIS representatives met with members of the Board of Trustees, school leadership, and students. The students also created a video showcasing life at ASA.

Angela Reilly, ASA’s Accreditation Coordinator, highlights the significance of this achievement: “Joining the Council of International Schools as a member demonstrates our voluntary commitment to continuous school improvement and growth. ASA is now part of a dynamic global community of over 1,500 schools and universities worldwide, and we look forward to benefiting from their resources, guidance, and professional development opportunities.”

The Benefits of CIS Membership

ASA’s membership in CIS brings numerous advantages that will enrich our school environment and better serve our students and families:

  • Enhanced Child Protection & Safeguarding
    CIS membership equips ASA with advanced tools and training to enhance our child protection policies. This includes strategies for safer recruitment practices and managing potential risks, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all students.
  • Fostering Mental Health & Well-being
    Our CIS affiliation grants us access to expert resources aimed at promoting mental health and well-being. We are committed to fostering a school culture that is inclusive, culturally safe, and conducive to learning.
  • University Guidance & Global Opportunities
    A key benefit of our membership is the connection to a global network of university admission professionals. This partnership will strengthen our ability to guide students toward higher education opportunities worldwide.
  • Seamless Transition to Higher Education
    With CIS membership, ASA will be better equipped to facilitate a smoother transition from secondary school to university. By collaborating closely with universities and families, we can address the unique needs of international students, ensuring a well-supported and successful journey to higher education.

A Bright Future for ASA

ASA’s membership in the Council of International Schools is a testament to our commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. As we enter this new chapter, we are excited to harness the benefits of CIS membership to offer our students a world-class education that prepares them for a global future.