Accreditation & Certification
Accreditation with ACSI engages schools in a vigorous, holistic process of organizational appraisal and improvement that engages every school constituent. Our program is a highly regarded Christian program for member schools. We have partnerships with all of the U.S. regional accreditation agencies and offer joint accreditation with numerous accrediting organizations.
Every step in our accreditation process is designed to be useful for driving improvement in private schools. If you are striving for excellence based on a solid Christian philosophy of education, consider exploring our program.
The purpose of ACSI Certification is to strengthen Christian schools by credentialing educators who meet established professional and biblical requirements. ACSI Certification promotes continued professional learning and increased effectiveness. Establishing and maintaining the certification of staff and administration is an essential step toward professional credibility and growth. Education is a process. Just as we encourage our students to grow and become life–long learners, we want to set the same example as their teachers and leaders.
ACSI certification establishes a framework for professional growth to occur over time, just like continuous school improvement.
ACSI Welcomes Terry Caywood as the New Accreditation Director for Central Division
Colorado Springs, CO – The Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) is pleased to announce Terry Caywood as its new Central Division Accreditation Director.
This role will ensure educational excellence by overseeing ACSI’s accreditation process for Christian member schools across 18 states. Caywood will foster relationships with accredited school leaders in the Central Division and will resource them as they embark on their journey of continuous improvement.
Caywood will begin his role on Dec. 1, 2024, bringing 37 years of educational experience, having served the last 17 years as the Head of School at Harvest Christian Academy in Keller, Texas. He attended Stephen F. Austin State University for his Bachelor of Science degree and then earned an M.A. in Educational Leadership from Dallas Baptist University and a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Throughout his tenure in K-12 Christian education, Caywood has been active in ACSI accreditation by leading his school through the accreditation process, serving as a team member, and chairing multiple ACSI teams. He has also served on the ACSI Central Division, South Accreditation Commission. He has developed deep experience and relationships with schools in his region.
Stephen Deck, ACSI Senior Director of Accreditation and Credentialing, shared his excitement about Caywood joining the ACSI team."Terry brings a wealth of Christian school leadership experience and accreditation experience, as well as a heart for helping Christian schools target key areas to drive school improvement,” he said. “As ACSI fully implements the Inspire protocol, aligned with the Flourishing Schools research, Terry will effectively lead the accreditation process for our Central Division schools as they continue to prepare students academically and inspire them to become devoted followers of Jesus Christ."
Caywood is looking forward to serving Christian schools at ACSI.
“I look forward to serving and connecting with ACSI schools through this accreditation position as we honor the Lord in the lives of students and families,” he said. “To have this opportunity to help strengthen and advance Kingdom education through ACSI's accreditation program is humbling. I am excited about the many new relationships that will be formed with Christian school leaders as we strive to be effective and impactful in every facet of our students' experiences.”
To learn more about ACSI’s Inspire Accreditation Protocol, please visit the website.