Introduction

About CAIS

The California Association of Independent Schools (CAIS) is a non-profit organization of approximately 234 elementary, middle, secondary, and K-12 schools in California. The Association serves and strengthens its schools by setting standards of academic quality and ethical conduct, by providing for the professional growth of administrators and trustees, and by promoting racial, ethnic, and socio-economic diversity. Member schools vary widely, ranging in size from 36 to 1979 students; providing campuses that are urban, suburban, or rural; enrolling student bodies that are coeducational or single sex; and offering boarding and day programs. The majority of schools are secular, but many are religiously affiliated.

About Independent Schools

Independent schools are pre-collegiate, non-profit institutions that are independently governed by Boards of Trustees and supported by tuition revenue, charitable contributions, and endowment income, rather than by taxes or major funding from religious organizations. Through the accreditation process, schools hold themselves publicly accountable to all who seek assurance that they meet high standards of educational quality, operational stability, and staff competence.

Independent schools are caring communities that are uniquely capable of providing students with individualized attention. Schools are dedicated to developing responsible, independent, and service-oriented students, encouraging a lifetime commitment to community involvement and a sense of social responsibility and global citizenship. All CAIS schools attempt to foster inclusive communities, and they admit students without regard to race, color, sexual orientation, and national or ethnic origin to all the rights and privileges, programs, and activities available to students.

Membership Requirements

To be eligible for provisional membership, schools must be in at least their third year of operation, be incorporated not-for-profit, and meet the standards outlined in key documents of the Association, including the Fundamental Membership Requirements and the Code of Ethics. Once a school becomes a provisional member, it must then proceed with the selfstudy process and demonstrate that it meets the Association’s accreditation standards.

Applying for Admission

Generally, the best time for families to apply to schools for the admission of their children is in the fall of the year preceding enrollment, but a number of schools accept and consider applications throughout the year. To begin the application process, contact the admission office of the schools you will consider and request a brochure and other pertinent materials. Most schools will require an interview, admission testing, and information from the student’s previous school.

Tuition and Fees

The tuition and fees for the schools listed in this directory vary according to the type of school and location. Although independent schools typically rely on tuition income as their major source of revenue, more than $400,000,000 of financial aid is available each year in CAIS schools for families who qualify. Details on financial aid policies and on applying for tuition assistance may be obtained from the individual schools.