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Independent School Resources

Preparing for Accreditation

Once notified by NEASC that an accreditation visit is due, schools should take the following steps:

  1. The Head of School and/or Self-Study coordinator(s) should register to attend a Self-Study Workshop. 
     
  2. Following the workshop and prior to beginning the Self-Study, a date will be scheduled for a NEASC staff member to meet with faculty and administrators. Any changes to the Standards and/or process that have occurred since the last accreditation visit will be reviewed. 
     
  3. Once the school is up to date, the work can begin. Generally, it takes 18 months to two years to complete the Self-Study. NEASC will be in touch with schools throughout the process regarding required reports and to provide ongoing support and resources.

Accreditation Protocol for Independent Schools in the US

A group of people collaborate around a table

"I put great value in the NEASC Accreditation process. This was my third accreditation at Washington Academy, and we have found that the Self-Study and Visit have always been huge catalysts for school improvement and growth."- Judson McBrine, Head of School - Washington Academy, East Machias, ME
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Protocol for Independent Schools

ACE Learning

Standards

Search the Calendar of Events for upcoming training and professional learning.

   
Announcements

New Heads Roundtables

Fall 2026 dates will be announced soon. Invitations will be sent one week ahead of the sessions.

These one-hour sessions address the real challenges all school leaders encounter, with particular support for those who are new to their role or their school community. Discussions may focus on topics such as leading through crises, navigating difficult conversations, and strengthening board relations and governance — practical guidance designed to help leaders build confidence, clarity, and capacity.

   
Additional Support

If you have questions specific to your school's accreditation or to request a resource not hosted on this website, please contact your school's NEASC Liaison.

If you do not know the individual assigned to your school, please contact the commission office at cis@neasc.org.