Saint Mary’s University Junior High School and Science High School (SMU JHS & SciHS) proudly attained their Level III Re-Accredited Status from the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities (PAASCU) on September 26, 2025, marking another chapter in their pursuit of educational excellence.

The journey toward this milestone began long before 2025. After earning Level II Re-Accredited Status in 2022, SMU was encouraged to pursue the higher benchmark. Rising to the challenge, they formally submitted their documents to PAASCU on July 24, 2025. Two months later, their perseverance was rewarded.

The accreditation focused on six key areas that highlight the school’s commitment to quality: a high standard of instruction, chaired by Mrs. Audrey G. Bruno, which reflected strong classroom practices; curriculum development, under the guidance of Dr. Agnes N. Madamba, emphasized the importance of well-designed mechanisms for improving and upgrading programs; credible performance of teachers, guided by Miss Genelita B. Escaros, affirmed effective instruction that promotes meaningful learning; student achievement, chaired by Mrs. Kerishen B. Velano, highlighted excellent performance in both academic and co-curricular activities; community extension programs led by Mrs. Rhia A. Gagarin showed the visible impact of outreach and service; and finally, faculty development, directed by Mr. Jimmy E. Valdez, reflected a culture of growth supported by systematic planning and proper budget allocation.

 All these efforts came together under the leadership of Dr. Zayda S. Asuncion, Principal of SMU JHS & SciHS.

Faculty, staff, and students worked hand in hand. Teachers refining lessons late at night, committees reviewing documents with care, and students striving for excellence both in academic and extracurricular pursuits.

 Founded in 1957, PAASCU is a non-profit organization that provides voluntary accreditation to schools across the Philippines. Its seal represents high standards in curricula, faculty, research, and facilities. For SMU JHS & SciHS, joining the ranks of Level III re-accredited schools is both national recognition and a promise to uphold these standards.

 This achievement is more than a certificate or a title. It is a story of persistence, growth, and vision, a collective triumph that demonstrates how education extends beyond the classroom into service and holistic formation.

For the Marian community, Level III Re-Accredited Status is not an endpoint, but a new challenge: to sustain and even surpass the standards that earned this honor. As they continue to shape competent, compassionate, and service-oriented students, their journey of excellence is only just beginning.

Written by: Solenn Antoneth Mijares
Photo by:  The Marian Spectrum