ACCREDITATION & AFFILIATIONS

There are approximately 2,700 independent schools located in the United States, with over 35 in the St. Louis metropolitan area. These schools serve over 700,000 students from pre-kindergarten through high school with a wide diversity of educational programs.

Independent schools are “independent,” because they all have distinct missions and are funded through tuition, charitable contributions and endowment revenue to varying degrees depending upon the size and age of the institution. They are accountable to a Board of Trustees and are often associated with an accrediting agency, which oversees compliance with rigorous educational standards. 

ISACS
The College School is accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS), one of the most rigorous and demanding accrediting agencies in the United States. ISACS is a membership organization of more than 200 independent schools from 15 states in the Midwest region. (ISACS Site)

NAIS
The College School is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS).  NAIS is a voluntary membership organization representing nearly 1,200 independent schools worldwide. NAIS acts as the national voice of independent pre-collegiate education and as the center for collective action on behalf of its membership. It serves and strengthens its member schools and associations by articulating and promoting high standards of educational quality and ethical behavior. NAIS strives to preserve their independence and serve the democratic society from which that independence derives by advocating broad access for students in affirming the principles of equity and justice. (NAIS Site)

ISSL
The College School is also a member of the Independent Schools of St. Louis (ISSL).  Established in 1972, Independent Schools of St. Louis is a non-profit professional association of 37 of St. Louis’ independently-governed elementary and secondary schools. Membership, evaluation and accreditation are determined by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States and the Midwest regional arms of the National Independent Schools Association. Members of Independent Schools of St. Louis provide a complete range of educational opportunities, from traditional models of excellence in education to schools with special programs.  ISSL sponsors monthly meetings for administrators of St. Louis area independent schools, as well as topical workshops and conferences. TCS is an active participant in all ISSL-sponsored events. (ISSL Site)