Why Choose an Independent School?

An independent school is a private, nonprofit educational institution that is governed by a board of trustees and funded by tuition, endowments, and donations, rather than by government funds. Independent schools are free from government oversight in curriculum, teacher credentials, and admissions, allowing them to pursue their unique, mission-driven educational goals and foster flexible, personalized learning environments tailored to their students. 

Independent schools are close-knit communities that provide students with individualized attention. They challenge students to stretch their minds and go beyond academics to develop responsible, independent, and community-oriented students.

Independent schools come in all shapes and sizes. They include elementary and secondary schools; day and boarding schools; single-sex and coeducational schools. Some independent schools are religiously affiliated, and others are not. They vary in size and educational approach.

The curriculum, academic offerings, extracurricular programs, ease of learning, and connection to higher education are some of the factors you most likely consider when selecting a school for your child. But have you considered a K-12 school’s accreditation and the role it plays in your child’s education?

What is Accreditation?
Accreditation is a detailed assessment provided by accrediting agencies and is a rigorous evaluation of how well a school is meeting educational and operational standards, assuring you that your child’s education is in reliable hands. 

What Does the Accreditation Process Look Like and Who Provides It?
Accreditation is a voluntary process. Institutes that opt for accreditation undergo a periodic review and renewal by an accrediting organization, as accreditation is an ongoing process.

Most public and private K-12 schools are accredited either by a state’s department of education, which requires them to meet standards set by that specific state, or one of six regional accreditation agencies, which are private, non-profit organizations recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) and CHEA.

Accrediting agencies establish criteria for numerous educational institutes and programs. They evaluate and analyze varied facets of institutes and programs to confirm if they meet those standards.

Each region in the U.S. has its own accreditation associations and standards. In the Southeast,  most independent schools are accredited by one of the following:

• Serving and Accrediting Independent Schools (SAIS)
• Cognia
• Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI)

Since accreditation is voluntary, some private schools choose not to get accredited. While a school without accreditation can still have a high academic threshold, it is essential to know the benefits for your child when they attend an accredited school. 

Every NCAIS member school has earned accreditation, demonstrating its commitment to meeting rigorous standards of educational quality and integrity.

The Opportunity Scholarship helps North Carolina families pay tuition and other required fees to attend registered independent schools. To learn more, click the button below.

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