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 Kati Melton as its New Senior Director for the Western Division
Melton brings more than 20 years of educational experience leading faculty and staff, her most recent position being the Head of School at Cherry Hills Christian School in Colorado.She will continue serving as Head of School at Cherry Hills Christian School until the end of the 2024-25 school year, transitioning fully into her role at ACSI by the summer of 2025.
ACSI President & CEO Dr. Larry Taylor shared his excitement about Melton’s new position.
“We are glad to welcome Kati to the ACSI team,” he said. “Her wealth of knowledge in the Christian school leadership context will make her an invaluable resource to our schools across the Western Division. We have spent time selecting the right, God-appointed candidate for this important role, as we are passionate about ensuring our schools are equipped and supported.”
Dr. David Balik, ACSI Vice President, USA, shared his gratitude for God’s provision and steadfast faithfulness.
“I am grateful that God continues to show Himself faithful in providing for our every need at ACSI, according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Hiring the right people is so important, and Kati Melton is truly an answer to prayer! She is going to do an outstanding job serving our schools and school leaders in the Western Division going forward.”
Melton looks forward to resourcing and facilitating relationships with Christian schools in the Western Division.
“I am excited that God continues to make His calling clear in my life, and I can’t wait to serve ACSI for His Kingdom and glory. I look forward to advancing Christ-centered education, building meaningful relationships, and supporting schools in their mission to impact lives for Christ. Together, we will work to advance God’s Kingdom in powerful and lasting ways.”
Throughout her career, she has served as a head of school, principal, and teacher, always putting Christ at the center of her work.
During her time at Cherry Hills Christian School, Melton led the ACSI Accreditation process and the development of a school-wide continuous improvement plan. She successfully set and oversaw the school’s long-range strategy that focused on bringing academic excellence, developing a thriving spiritual formation plan, and creating financial stability and growth in a flourishing school community.
Melton has a Master of Arts in Education Leadership from University of Northern Colorado and is pursuing a Doctorate in Education Leadership and Policy from Vanderbilt University. Additionally, she is currently in executive management training through the Van Lunen Fellows Program at Calvin University.
To learn more about ACSI’s Western Division, visit the website.