The association works to advance standards and training within the sector, working alongside partner organisations in neighbouring states or nationally as a member of NAIS and ICAISA. In addition, NJAIS acts as an advocate for its members representing their interests to government at state and federal level and promoting the independent schools sector.

As an accreditation body, NJAIS members are subject to rigorous review and ongoing assessment with membership being extended only to those schools that are deemed to uphold the highest standards. Many of the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools are similarly accredited by at least one other, often nationally, reputable accrediting body, such as the American Montessori Society, NAIS or the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (amongst others). NJAIS works collaboratively with many of those other associations in order to develop best-practice approaches to accreditation reviews and to stipulate standards to be met in private schools across the country.

The association was founded in 1958 and has grown to include some 90 member schools with a collective student body of over 36,000 pupils. Its member schools include some of the best schools in the country, many being internationally regarded. In addition to NJAIS’ membership of NAIS and ICAISA, the association is an institutional member of: The Council for American Private Education (CAPE); The Center for Spiritual and Ethical Education (CSEE); the International Studies Association (ISA); the National Business Officers Association (NBOA); and the New Jersey Nonpublic Advisory Council.

NJAIS membership varies so please check with NJAIS for the latest details and further information about the work of the organisation and how they partner with schools in New Jersey. The schools listed below are known to be recent members.