MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION

CRITERIA FOR MEMBERSHIP
Prior to submitting an application for PAIS membership, leadership must be able to establish that the School:

  • Is academic in its mission.
  • Has non-discriminatory policies and practices in admissions, employment, and all other aspects of school operation as provided by law.
  • Is a not-for-profit, IRS designated 501(c)(3) organization.
  • Is able to comply with all applicable laws and regulations in all aspects of school operation.
  • Is governed by an independent Board of Trustees that hold the school’s institutional health and long-term survival as the Board’s highest priority.
  • Is funded primarily through tuition, endowment revenue, and/or philanthropy, not by tax or church funds.
  • Is currently licensed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or the State of Delaware or accredited by accrediting associations approved by the State Board of Education.
  • Has conducted an annual certified independent audit including the auditor's opinion letter.
  • Aspires to the Principles of Good Practice of the National Association of Independent Schools.
Understanding that the nature of independent schools is such that schools as well as the stated processes of the association may call for adaptations or exceptions, the PAIS Board of Directors reserves the right to make exceptions to these stated criteria.

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION PROCESS
  • A school interested in PAIS membership will have a virtual meeting scheduled with the PAIS Executive Director and Head of School to determine if the school meets all criteria for membership.
  • Once determined that the school meets PAIS membership criteria the school will receive an online Membership Application Form to complete, providing school profile information, uploading required documentation, and paying a non-refundable $250 application fee.
  • Once the required information is submitted an onsite school visit will be scheduled for the Executive Director and/or his appointee.
  • Once the onsite visit is completed, the applying school is reviewed by the PAIS Membership and Marketing Committee to determine if they are approved to be presented to the Board of Directors for approval of membership.
  • If approved by the Membership and Marketing Committee the applying school is presented to the Board of Directors for approval of membership.

Schools that have previously been a member of PAIS may move to Member status immediately pending a discussion with the Executive Director.

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
Please CONTACT US to learn more about PAIS Membership and to obtain the Membership Application.