Spellings said she understood the need to better assess the work of higher education institutions, but noted that a one-size-fits-all accountability framework may fail. “We understand that a community college is different from an elite research institution,” she said. Of accreditation changes, she said, “We’re going to do it with you, not to you.”
The secretary said she plans to convene a summit in March 2007 to discuss all aspects of the commission’s recommendations, including those affecting accreditation. She added that the Education Department is working with the federal Office of Management and Budget on a proposal to fund pilot programs implementing some of these proposals. The Bush administration will release its 2008 federal budget in February.
Prior to her speech, Spellings participated in small-group discussions on potential accreditation changes. Those talks yielded a variety of ideas, including the need for additional options — short of denying accreditation — to challenge low-performing colleges and universities. Accrediting officials often are wary of taking dramatic steps against an underperforming college, since those moves likely would force an institution to close.
© Copyright 2005 by DiverseEducation.com
