Ratings System

In November 2011, the Commission on Independent Schools revised the way a school is rated on the standards. The 2007 Manual edition used ratings from 1 to 6, which has now been changed because we do not intend to suggest gradations in the degree to which a school passes a standard.

Under the new ratings system, there are four categories: two of them are passing, and the other two are failing.


A school fully passes the standard if the students’ experience is supported in that area and fails it if the students’ experience is compromised. The further distinction of a rating for a standard that is passed or for one that is failed is intended to add information about a school’s plans in this area.

With regard to a standard the school is passing, the visiting committee is asked to indicate if the school has identified minor recommendations for itself to improve in this area or is making significant recommendations for itself. In both cases, the standard is fully met.

Schools beginning their self-studies after January 1, 2012, will use the new ratings system.

Schools who have already completed substantial work on their self-studies as of January 1, 2012, may continue using the old ratings system if they prefer.  In this case, visiting committees should use their judgment or consult with a CIS staff member when determining which ratings system to use in the visiting committee report.

A MSWord version of the updated template for the visiting committee report is available here.  Please note that manuals and other materials will be revised at a later date to reflect this change.