Accreditation Resources

Through the evaluation and accreditation process, the Florida Council of Independent Schools strives to assure that each member school maintains high standards and independence.  The self-evaluation and accreditation process that each school undergoes is conducted to ensure that each school continues to adhere to the high FCIS standards and fulfills its mission as stated.

Each member school will spend approximately two years preparing for their FCIS evaluation.  There are currently two types of evaluations: the full evaluation and a five-year review model, available to schools with no standard violations in their last five year full evaluation.  In both models, colleagues from other independent schools spend two to three days on campus reviewing all facets of a school’s life.  The evaluation committee studies the philosophy and mission of the school, academic and ancillary programs, library/media facilities, technology, instructional resources, facility and safety, and qualifications of the administrative team and faculty.  Interviews with representatives of all constituent groups, classroom visits, and observations of campus life validate the self-study analysis provided by the school.

Based on their observations and interviews, the visiting team will prepare a report of their findings, including commendations and recommendations.  This Final Report will be presented to the FCIS Board of Directors by the Chair of the visiting team.  Schools which successfully meet all FCIS standards, are deemed to be financially stable and to provide quality education are then granted initial or continued accredited membership.  Schools with multiple standard violations may be placed on Warned or Probationary status.  These schools will have one year to address the violations and be re-evaluated.

FCIS is proud of the accreditation process and the high ideals to which our schools continually strive.  For any questions on this process, please contact Karen Mathews , Associate Director for Accreditation .