For Immediate Release: June 5, 2025
Contact: Superintendent Brad Wilson
Lake Chelan School District
Wilsonb@chelanschools.org
(509) 682-3515

Chelan High School Earns State Accreditation Through AESD Process

CHELAN, WA — Lake Chelan School District is proud to announce that Chelan High School has been officially accredited through the Washington State Association of Educational Service Districts (AESD) accreditation process—a significant milestone reflecting the school’s ongoing commitment to student success, continuous improvement, and educational excellence.

Accreditation was granted by the Northwest Educational Service District 189 (NWESD), the lead agency in a statewide process that validates school quality and effectiveness on a six-year cycle. The AESD accreditation framework is built on a cycle of inquiry, action, and improvement, providing a rigorous, research-based structure that ensures schools are delivering high-quality educational programs.

“This honor is a testament to the hard work of our students, educators, families, and community members,” said Superintendent Brad Wilson. “Chelan High School continues to exemplify the values at the heart of our district—achievement, belief in potential, and meaningful contribution to our community.”

The AESD accreditation process emphasizes:

• A voluntary, collaborative self-study by the school,
• External validation of school improvement goals and practices,
• Clear accountability to the public, and
• A third-year review checkpoint to assess progress and recalibrate if necessary.

Throughout this multi-year effort, Chelan High School demonstrated excellence in preparing students not only for college, but for life beyond graduation. Its strategic planning aligned closely with Lake Chelan School District’s mission to “ensure academic, social, and emotional success for every student,” and its vision of developing young adults who are achieving, believing, and contributing.

In the most recent years, Chelan High School has posted a graduation rate consistently above 95%, significantly higher than the state average, and has dramatically increased dual credit enrollment—from just over 50% to 78% in 2024. These results reflect the school’s strong focus on academic rigor, student engagement, and post-secondary readiness.

This achievement also reflects the district’s broader strategic priorities, which include enhancing student learning, developing staff and operational effectiveness, and increasing community engagement.

“We are honored by this recognition,” said CHS Principal and accreditation process leader Jamie Pancho. “It validates the tireless efforts of our teachers and staff who challenge and support students every day. It also signals to our families and community that Chelan High School is a place of excellence and growth.”

Chelan High School is just one of nine accredited high schools in the North Central Washington region. The accreditation is valid for six years, with a third-year review planned to ensure continued progress and improvement.

CHS Principal Jamie Pancho

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Established in 1892, Lake Chelan School District serves nearly 1,300 students with 95 percent of its students graduating in four years and more than 78 percent of high school students enrolled in no-cost, college-level coursework (OSPI data). The district’s headquarters is located at 309 E. Johnson Ave., Chelan, WA 98816. Telephone: (509) 682-3515. Follow the LCSD on Facebook, Instagram or view the LCSD website at: www.chelanschools.org