Brett Jacobsen headshot

Dr. Brett Jacobsen
President

“SAIS – Southern Association of Independent Schools – is the independent school membership organization conducting sector-wide research, collecting and analyzing data across our membership, and building practical tools to address the real challenges facing independent school leaders. Built with and for schools, SAIS is where insight becomes impact. Join us as we lead the leaders of independent schools.”

Member schools

States + Caribbean & Latin America

Students represented

The SAIS Mission

We strengthen member schools by providing high-quality accreditation processes, comprehensive professional growth opportunities, and visionary leadership development programs.

Values

We value independent governance while remaining committed to a comprehensive accreditation process.

We respect and amplify the diverse stories and voices of our member schools.

We equip and empower leaders to generate new ideas, design strategy, and support purpose-driven plans.

We cultivate community and create experiences where participants leave connected, inspired, and restored.

What SAIS Provides

Accreditation that drives improvement

A collaborative, mission-centered process that strengthens schools and supports long-term growth

Professional learning with real-world impact

High-quality programs, workshops, and resources designed for today’s independent school leaders and educators

Research and strategic insight

Timely data, benchmarking tools, and thought leadership to help you make informed decisions with clarity and confidence

A connected community

Meaningful relationships with peers and leaders who understand the unique opportunities and complexities of independent school leadership

“SAIS has been an invaluable partner for our school community. The professional learning, leadership support, and connections with peers consistently strengthen our work.”

Head of School
SAIS Member School

New Member Hub

SAIS member schools have access to a wide range of resources and support. To discover your membership benefits, visit our New Member Welcome page for step-by-step guides on how to make the most of your membership.

SAIS Distinguished
Service Award

Since 2012, the SAIS Distinguished Service Award has been given by the SAIS Board of Trustees in recognition of a distinguished career in independent education, as well as service to SAIS. The creation of the award was inspired by the life and work of Dale Regan, who devoted 34 years of her life to the Episcopal School of Jacksonville, and who, posthumously, was the award’s first recipient.