Georgia Universities Take a Risk with New Accreditor

Two universities in Georgia have decided to join a new accreditation group. This group is still being tested. The Commission for Public Higher Education (CPHE) is trying to get approval from the U. S. Department of Education. It needs to show it can handle accrediting schools first. Columbus State and Georgia Southern are part of the first group of 10 schools. They are taking a chance by joining this new agency. The CPHE has big plans. It wants to accredit schools in Georgia and five other Southern states.Georgia Southern's president, Kyle Marrero, said they want to be part of this new system. He believes it will help the university grow and improve. But not everyone is sure this is a good idea. Some people think the CPHE might not be ready. They worry it could cause problems for the schools. The U. S. Department of Education has not yet approved the CPHE. This means the agency is still proving itself. The CPHE says it will focus on helping schools succeed. It wants to make sure students get a good education. But only time will tell if this new accreditor can deliver on its promises.