About NWAIS

The Northwest Association of Independent Schools is a nonprofit membership association that provides accreditation, professional development and support services to over 110 schools in Alaska, British Columbia, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.

Our Vision

NWAIS shapes the future of education by fostering transformative school leadership and advancing, energizing and sustaining regional independent schools.

Our Core Values

As we work together to advance the mission of NWAIS, we are guided by Core Values. These essential principles enrich our relationships, guide our professional development programs, shape our member services, and inform our process for school accreditation.

• Healthy, Just, Diverse, and Inclusive Communities
• Continuous Improvement
• Transformative, Visionary Leadership
• The Positive Impact of Independent School Education
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Our Expectations of Member Schools and Affiliates

• Commitment to the Public Good

• Effective Governance and Operations


• Primary Focus of Academic Education

• Commitment to the Best Interests of Children
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Our Commitment to Diversity

NWAIS schools are expected to maintain communities that are safe and supportive for all their members. Accordingly, all schools in the Association shall create and foster a program, culture, and inclusive community of students, families, trustees, faculty and staff that embrace diverse perspectives, cultures, backgrounds, and identities. Schools may demonstrate their Commitment to Care in a variety of ways, including, for example, but not limited to: curricular study, extra-curricular programming, articulated institutional policies, a statement of non-discrimination that includes sexual orientation and gender identity as protected classes, and traditions and practices that affirm the school as a healthy, respectful, welcoming environment for all.