Founded in 1982 and located in Sherman Oaks, CA, C&E Merdinian Armenian Evangelical School is an independent, non-profit school for children of preschool through 8th grade that will prepare its graduates to be: Christians who understand and practice the principles of the Christian faith; live a Christ-centered life. Armenian-Americans who know, appreciate, and take pride in Armenian history and culture; know about the Armenian Genocide as a crime against humanity and the need for it to be recognized by the world. Communicators in English and Armenian who can read fluently, write coherently, listen attentively as well as express themselves articulately and coherently using academic vocabulary. Critical Thinkers who can compute and calculate with accuracy and clearly, can draw conclusions by reasoning, comparing, and contrasting; can collaborate with others to achieve realistic goals. Citizens who are fair, responsible, and tolerant of other people and cultures; appreciate natural resources; follow good health habits; and contribute to their communities. Merdinian is fully accredited by WASC. The Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACS WASC) is one of six regional accrediting associations in the United States. The Accrediting Commission for Schools, WASC, extends its services to over 4,500 public, independent, church-related, and proprietary pre-K–12 and adult schools, works with 16 associations in joint accreditation processes, and collaborates with other educational organizations.