For Families

Independent schools make all policy, curriculum, teaching methodology, and overall educational philosophy decisions in-house. They operate independently of any public school system. The schools are led by a Head of School, who manages the daily operation of the school, and a Board of Trustees, who work with the school head to ensure the best educational experience for the children they serve and to strategically plan for the future.

There are many, but the primary advantage is that all decisions are made for the good of the school community, based on the school’s mission. The focus is always on what is best for your student and his/her schoolmates, which are often very different from the needs of students in other schools.

Independent schools each have their own unique mission, but share may core values, such as:

• Strong partnerships between the families and the school;
• Small class sizes, which allow for more personalized attention and customized learning experiences;
• An empowered and dedicated team of faculty and staff, who work together to design the best curriculum for the families they serve;
• The development of a wide range of diverse activities outside the classroom to complement the academic program and prepare students for college and beyond.

Schools that are part of an educational organization like AAAIS have avenues for collaboration and growth not available to schools that operate more in isolation. AAAIS sponsors regular meetings for many groups within its member schools, where ideas are shared that make all the schools stronger.

While all AAAIS schools provide many advantages, it is important to determine which school gives your child the best opportunities to thrive, given their own unique interests and needs. Consider the following:

• Think about your priorities and values and what educational environment will best serve your child’s unique strengths, interests, and learning style. Ensure that the school can address specific needs and offer necessary support.
• Research! Visit school websites, talk to current parents, and most importantly, visit the schools by attending open houses, taking tours, and using these and other school-sponsored events to meet teachers and students.
• Taking into account your family’s values and expectations, ask questions about the school’s curriculum, teaching methods, class size, co-curricular offerings, and any specific programs that might be relevant to your child.

Yes, accreditation by a recognized national or regional accrediting agency is required to become a AAAIS member.

Funded by tuition and philanthropy, all AAAIS schools are committed to offering financial assistance to help with the cost of attending. Based on the AAAIS Principles of Best Practice, our schools provide only need-based aid and do not offer scholarships based on academic, athletic, or artistic skills. This provides equal opportunities for all students seeking tuition assistance.

The process for applying for financial assistance varies from school to school, so be sure to add this to your questions when researching schools.

It is first worth noting that to be members of AAAIS, all schools must have a publicly stated non-discrimination policy. But beyond that, AAAIS schools are committed to creating equity and access for families throughout the area we serve. When you visit a school, observe how students, teachers, staff interact. Inquire directly about diversity, inclusion, and belonging efforts, and explore how these fit in with the curriculum and co-curricular activities. You will be pleased with what you see and hear at any of our schools that you visit. 

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