Initially conceived as an organisation to advance accreditation standards, NAIS was established in 1962 by the Independent Schools Examination Board (established in 1924) and the National Council on Independent Schools (established in 1940). Its’ original purpose being to harmonise standards and approaches within the sector and to offer support to the various state and regional accreditation bodies which comprised NAIS’ founding members.

This aspect of NAIS’ role has since changed substantially since the establishment of the International Council Advancing Independent School Accreditation which assumed and expanded upon the NAIS Commission on Accreditation.

Subsequently, NAIS performs more of a lobbying role for its’ members, acting as a liaison and industry voice with respect to developments impacting the sector.

NAIS members include several thousand independent schools (both boarding and day) in the United States and further afield in addition to regional and state-level accreditation bodies and a coterie of related and supporting businesses with an interest in the sector.

Membership of the organisation is open to all interested parties with three tiers indicating the extent of a member’s standing, involvement and so on. Any and all independent schools are invited to join (i.e. those controlled by a board of governors independent of local, state or federal government). Schools must, however, be accredited by a recognised body in order to be considered as members. Furthermore, membership candidates must have been established and admitting students for at least five years in order to qualify as full members (schools outside of the United States may only qualify as affiliate members). All candidates must be demonstrably nondiscriminatory in admission and employment in addition to presenting responsible administrative practices and financial management.

Members are invited to participate in a number of conferences and workshops organised throughout the year. Faculty may take part in various committees relevant to the management and administration of independent schools or curriculum development.

The schools below have recently been NAIS members or affiliates. However, as membership is open, you should check with NAIS here for the latest member details or get in touch with your preferred school for further information.