New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS)

Founded in 1947, the New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS) is an association of 203 independent schools and institutions, from nurseries to high schools, in the state of New York. It is the 2nd largest state association of independent schools in the USA. The schools, under NYSIAS, have enrolled over 80,000 students as of 2024.

The NYSIAS was established “to protect independent schools from obstructive legislation and regulation”. It provides accreditation services to member schools, provides professional development, and supports the needs and interests of independent schools across the state. NYSAIS is an associated member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) as well as the International Council Advancing Independent School Accreditation (ICAISA).

NYSAIS Membership

Full membership in the Association is available to not-for-profit, independent, nursery, elementary, and secondary schools, and also to non-profit associations related to independent education. Moreover, associate membership is open to certain other private or quasi-private educational institutions.