Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS)

Background

The Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS) is a non-profit voluntary membership association founded in 1955. It comprises nearly 100 independent schools across Arizona, Kansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. ISAS's mission is to promote the highest standards of educational excellence and continuous growth, challenging and inspiring member schools to prepare students for purposeful and constructive lives.

Key Strategic Focus

ISAS focuses on accrediting member schools to ensure adherence to high educational standards. The association facilitates communication and fosters positive, ethical, and supportive relationships among its member schools. It also promotes understanding and goodwill between member schools and state, regional, and national education agencies, colleges, and universities. Additionally, ISAS conducts joint student programs in cooperation with its member schools in the arts and other areas.

Financials and Funding

As of the fiscal year ending June 2023, ISAS reported revenues of approximately $1.36 million and expenses of $1.34 million, resulting in a net income of $16,268. The organization's total assets stood at $2.23 million, with liabilities of $521,041, leading to net assets of $1.71 million. The primary source of revenue is program services, accounting for 99% of total revenue.

Pipeline Development

ISAS offers a range of professional learning opportunities, including conferences and meetings for various roles such as admissions, advancement, beginning teachers, board chairs, business managers, division heads, technology directors, and heads of schools. These events are designed to provide relevant topics and incorporate the latest research and trends for creating successful independent schools in the Southwest.

Technological Platform and Innovation

ISAS leverages technology to enhance its accreditation processes and professional development offerings. The association provides an Accreditation Portal for member schools to access resources and manage accreditation activities. Additionally, ISAS utilizes online platforms to host virtual conferences and meetings, ensuring accessibility and engagement among its members.

Leadership Team

Scott Griggs, Executive Director

Scott Griggs has been an administrator at private schools in Maryland, Virginia, and Ohio. He attended Centre College in Danville, Kentucky.

Merry Sorrells, Board President

Leadership Changes

As of the latest available information, there have been no recent significant changes or appointments within the ISAS leadership team.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The independent school accreditation landscape is characterized by various regional associations that provide similar services to ISAS. These organizations focus on accrediting independent schools, offering professional development, and fostering collaboration among member institutions.

Competitor Analysis

Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS): SAIS is a professional organization that helps independent schools of all sizes through accreditation, resources, and professional programs. It serves over 390 member K-12 schools across 16 U.S. states, the Caribbean, and Latin America.

Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS): ISACS provides accreditation and professional development services to independent schools in the central United States.

Association of Colorado Independent Schools (ACIS): ACIS offers accreditation and support services to independent schools in Colorado.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

ISAS is a member in good standing of the International Council Advancing Independent School Accreditation (ICAISA), which advances excellence and upholds standards to ensure quality and accountability in independent schools globally. Additionally, ISAS is affiliated with the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC) and the Oklahoma Private School Accreditation Commission (OPSAC), assisting in monitoring and approving organizations that accredit non-public educational institutions in Texas and Oklahoma, respectively.

Operational Insights

ISAS maintains a ten-year evaluation cycle for its member schools, with ongoing evaluations required from interim reporting by other schools. During the year, ISAS evaluated eleven member schools and required ongoing evaluations from nine others. Additionally, one new school qualified for membership in the 2021-2022 school year. ISAS reports on member schools to state education departments as required and represents them on commissions reporting to state education departments in other states and a national organization of peer associations.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

ISAS aims to continue promoting high educational standards and ethical practices among independent schools in the Southwest. The association plans to expand its professional development offerings, enhance its accreditation processes, and strengthen collaborations with educational agencies and organizations to better serve its member schools and the broader educational community.