What is MELIOR?
The MEGCAR experience, as a self-assessment and improvement tool, required a step further, through which specific guidelines could be offered to know the moment of the improvement process. In addition, validation of the evaluation carried out and accreditation by the EDUCAR network was necessary. With these objectives, the MELIOR Certification was born. St. Augustine uses the Latin word “melioratio” to refer to improvement or betterment. This term is derived from the adjective "melior" which means "better." Saint Augustine uses this word in his writings to emphasize the importance of seeking constant improvement in one's spiritual and moral life. The idea of "melioratio" implies a process of growth and improvement, both at the individual and community levels.
Steps to obtain certification
01. Commitment to the continuous improvement process
02. MEGCAR Self-Assessment Process
03. Commitment to improvement
04. External Peer Evaluation (EPE)
05. Certification of Excellence
The process begins with the signing of a commitment to continuous improvement, which is sent to the Certification Commission of the EDUCAR network. After signing, the educational center has eight months to present the Educational Center Report, which includes information about it, the self-evaluation report, responses and indicators defined by the EDUCAR network and the commitment to improvement.
The self-assessment is based on the Model for the Evaluation of the Management of the Augustinian Recollect Charisma (MEGCAR) and consists of several stages, including organization, sensitization of the educational community, collection and analysis of information, and formulation of the commitment to improvement.
The improvement commitment describes the objectives to be achieved, the actions to address identified improvement opportunities and a schedule with short, medium and long-term monitoring indicators. This stage culminates with the delivery of the Educational Center Report.
An external evaluation team reviews the Educational Center Report, evaluates the coherence of the information and the viability of the commitment to improvement. They can do on-site assessments if necessary. Positive report and acceptance of recommendations lead to a certificate.
The MELIOR certification of excellence is awarded to educational centers that demonstrate an effective living of Augustinian values, successful management of the Augustinian Recollect charism and a continuous willingness to improve. This certification will be granted by the EDUCAR network.
