Gold Accreditations · Accreditation Commission
Raising the standard for early learning and schools.
Accreditation that helps programs strengthen what they do every day, and shows families the quality behind the front door.
Who we accredit
Programs that serve children and families
Early Education Centers
Child care centers and preschools serving infants through school age.Learn more →Family Child Care Homes
Licensed or registered care in a provider's home.Learn more →Private Schools (K–12)
Elementary, middle and high schools, faith-based or not.Learn more →School-Age, Afterschool & Camps
Before and after school, tutoring and summer or holiday camps.Learn more →Why accreditation
More than a certificate on the wall
Stronger systems
The self-study puts your policies, records and routines in order, and keeps them there.A team that grows
Clear expectations, a training plan and honest feedback from experienced peer reviewers.Trust families can check
A public directory listing and a certificate anyone can verify online by its number.How it works
Six steps, with support at each one
1
Apply and join
Become a member and send your accreditation application and fee.
2
Welcome call
We walk you through the standards and the member portal.
3
Self-study
Write how you meet each standard and upload your evidence, at your pace (up to 10 months).
4
Pre-site review
Reviewers read your self-study and ask for anything that is missing.
5
Site visit
Peer reviewers visit to see your program in action.
6
Decision and certificate
The Commission decides. Accredited programs receive a numbered certificate.
Most programs finish in 6 to 12 months. Accreditation lasts 5 years. Full details, standards and fees →