Why an Independent School?

Independent schools are private schools, but not all private schools are independentThey are governed by a Board of Trustees which is independent of other entities. There are no owners. They are tuition-based and financially independent - not relying on government funds. They are non-profit and accredited.

Independent schools are non-profit private schools that are independent in philosophy: each is driven by a unique mission. They are also independent in the way they are managed and financed: each is governed by an independent board of trustees and each is primarily supported through tuition payments and charitable contributions. They are accountable to their communities and are accredited by state-approved accrediting bodies.  - National Association of Independent Schools

Attributes of Countryside

Independence in the truest sense of the word -- Countryside is governed by a board of trustees, not an elected school board. The school is supported by tuition payments and charitable contributions.

High academic standards - We nurture intellectual curiosity, stimulate personal growth, encourage critical thinking, and promote a lifelong love of learning.

Teachers have the freedom to create educational experiences that meet each child’s needs, without state mandates on curriculum, textbooks, and testing.

Mission-driven - At Countryside, our mission is Joy in Learning, Excellence in Education.

Small classes allow for individual attention. Our average class size is 8-15 students per teacher.

Superb outcomes - Our students develop a love of learning with a curriculum stressing critical thinking, oral and written presentation skills, cooperation, and teamwork.

Parent community - Our parents actively participate in their children’s education. We promote regular communication among students, parents, and teachers to ensure everyone is working toward the same goals.

What is accreditation?

Accreditation by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS) is awarded every 7 years and:

• certifies that a school is a true non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and determines its own mission and program, and

• validates that the school has met more than 50 standards of best practice for independent education and admissions, and

• requires the school undergo a financial audit, and

• requires a survey of the school’s constituencies, and

• requires a site visit by experienced outside professionals who confirm that the school delivers upon its promises.