An academic accreditation review team that visited local schools last month has released its official report, much of which reflects well on the Dawson County School System.

In a 24-page summary of findings, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, or SACS, commended the system for its partnership with post-secondary institutions, its emphasis on “placing kids first,” ongoing improvement through student achievement data, district transparency and collaboration.

Accompanying the positive feedback was a list of “required actions” identified by the review team “that will have the greatest impact on improving student performance and overall effectiveness.”

Among the required actions: Enforcement of the attendance policy in order to lower the percentage of students missing 15 or more days of school.

The only other required action in the report advised the system to “develop and implement a strategic plan that provides a comprehensive three- to five-year focus for the school system.”

The report was the second of two the school district received, according to Jennifer Oliver, vice president for communications for SACS.

An official with the association addressed the school board at its Feb. 2 work session to deliver the preliminary oral report.

According to its Web site, the accreditation process ensures districts are meeting national academic standards.

A SACS team visits a school system every five years to determine how well it is working to meet students’ needs.

According to its Web site, SACS is one of six regional accreditation organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

After the review team provides the report to the SACS commission, it will determine whether to renew Dawson County Schools’ accreditation.