Accreditation
CAIS Accreditation is a rigorous, peer-led process that helps independent schools strengthen their practices, demonstrate accountability and pursue continuous improvement.
Through internal self-assessment and external peer review, schools examine their educational programs, governance and operations against the CAIS National Standards.
The process helps schools recognize their strengths, identify opportunities for growth and establish priorities for the future. It also provides an objective external perspective and gives school communities confidence in a school’s commitment to responsible practices, high standards and educational excellence.
Understand the Accreditation Process
These short videos provide an overview of CAIS Accreditation and the two key stages of the process.
CAIS Accreditation Overview
The CAIS Self-Study Process
The CAIS Peer Review Process
CAIS Accreditation Visit Types
CAIS Accreditation includes three types of visits designed to respond to the needs and circumstances of member schools:
- Alignment Visit: A comprehensive review of the CAIS National Standards and all Indicators of Effective Practice.
- Collaborative Visit: A broad and integrated review of school effectiveness, combined with a school-directed Explore Initiative.
- Focused Visit: A customized and supportive visit initiated when substantive changes could affect accreditation status.
Eligible schools alternate between Alignment and Collaborative Visits every five years, with the Alignment Visit foundational to CAIS membership. Select the image below to view the complete guide.
ABOUT THE CAIS STANDARDS
The CAIS Standards and Indicators of Effective Practice are designed to reflect generally accepted principles of best practice in delivering high-quality education and furthering whole school improvement and sustainability. The Standards and Indicators are constantly evolving and are not to be taken as standards of reasonable conduct in any particular circumstance. It is up to each member school of CAIS to assess its specific circumstances and to take reasonable care.
Internationally Recognized Accreditation
CAIS is a member in good standing with the International Council Advancing Independent School Accreditation (ICAISA), the international leader in independent school accreditation.
ICAISA advances excellence, quality and accountability by establishing criteria for effective accreditation and formally evaluating member association accreditation programs.
Learn about the value of accreditation by an ICAISA member association