Independent Schools Association of the Southwest

Mission & Values

By promoting the highest standards of educational excellence and a spirit of continuous growth, ISAS challenges and inspires our member schools as they prepare students for purposeful and constructive lives.

Values

SERVICE
We care for our member schools by providing clear communication, timely responsiveness, generous support, and expertise.

COLLEGIALITY
We cultivate collegial relationships with and between our member schools by modeling and promoting respect, collaboration, partnership, and a spirit of sharing.

COURAGE
We identify and embrace challenges with integrity and a forward focus.

COMMUNITY
We value the rich diversity of our membership, recognize their distinct missions, and support progress toward their visions of more equitable and inclusive school communities.

In fulfilling its mission, the Association:

  • Administers an accreditation program that verifies its schools’ initial and ongoing qualifications for membership
  • Facilitates communication and fosters positive, ethical, and supportive relationships among its member schools
  • Promotes understanding and good will between its member schools and state, regional, and national education agencies, colleges and universities
  • Conducts joint student programs in cooperation with its member schools in the arts and other areas
  • Conveys to the general public the unique and exceptional qualities of its member schools
  • Provides professional development opportunities for trustees, administrators, faculty and staff of its member schools by sponsoring conferences and workshops on relevant topics.

The Independent Schools Association of the Southwest is a non-profit voluntary membership association of independent schools. The Association was founded in 1955 and includes schools located in Arizona, Kansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.

ISAS is a member in good standing of the International Council Advancing Independent School Accreditation and has voluntarily agreed to abide by Criteria for Good Practice and to submit to ongoing evaluation of its accreditation procedures by the Council. ISAS also regularly reports on the evaluation of member schools and on the accreditation process to state commissions which have been delegated responsibility for independent school accreditation by state education departments or legislatures.
 

ISAS member schools determine their own unique missions and are mission driven. They are incorporated as 501(c)(3) non-profit institutions and are supported primarily by tuition, contributions, and endowment income. Member schools have clearly stated educational philosophies which emphasize academic preparation, are committed to high educational standards and ongoing institutional improvement, and are governed by independent boards of trustees.

ISAS is committed to principles of diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion or creed, color, sexual orientation, age, physical challenge, national origin, or gender and recommends that member schools create diverse, inclusive, safe, and welcoming communities for all.