About NCAIS

NCAIS is rooted in celebrating the diversity, connection, and strength of our independent school* community. As a nonprofit association established in 1970, we unite and support 98 independent schools across North Carolina — with two additional members in South Carolina and Georgia — fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth.  

Our community thrives not through uniformity, but through a shared commitment to educational excellence, core values, and the success of every student. Whether faith-based or secular, day or boarding, single-gender or co-ed, each school contributes unique strengths, creating a rich tapestry of perspectives. Together, we serve over 40,000 students and empower more than 4,000 educators.  

Guided by the principle that we are #BetterTogether, NCAIS serves as a hub for resources, advocacy, and professional development. From our earliest member founded in 1772 to schools established in the 20th century, our network reflects deep tradition and forward-looking innovation. All are close-knit communities dedicated to nurturing student achievement, lifelong learning, and service.  

NCAIS and its member schools do not discriminate in admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, educational practices, or athletic and school-administered programs. 

*Independent schools are nonprofit schools with carefully defined missions, governed by boards of trustees, and supported by tuition payments, charitable contributions, and endowment revenue. Independent schools are accountable to regional or national accrediting agencies, holding themselves publicly accountable to all who seek assurance that they meet generally accepted standards of educational excellence, operation, and staff competence.