Lutheran School Accreditation

What is Lutheran School Accreditation?

Lutheran School Accreditation is a process of self-evaluation followed by a visit of trained observers to help Lutheran schools improve the quality of their programs. It is a completely voluntary process which is available for every school operated by one or more congregations of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. National Lutheran School Accreditation (NLSA) is a national, rigorous accrediting process designed to evaluate schools on the basis of their unique purposes as Lutheran schools. It helps schools evaluate not only their academic quality, but especially the spiritual dimension of the school. NLSA is supervised by the National Accreditation Commission made up of representatives from the various participating Districts of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. The process has been authorized and approved by the Board for Parish Services of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.

What are the Purposes of Lutheran School Accreditation?

To enable Lutheran schools – Elementary, Secondary and Early Childhood programs to improve. To help all Lutheran schools to evaluate themselves based on their unique purposes and on national standards. To give appropriate recognition to those schools which complete the process successfully.

Which Schools are Eligible for Lutheran School Accreditation?

All schools and early childhood programs which are recognized by the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod may apply.

Who Determines Whether or Not a School Will be Accredited?

The visiting team is responsible for a recommendation as part of its report. The District Commission will review the teams’ report and will recommend specific action to the National Accreditation Commission. The final decision will be made by the NLSA at its annual meeting.

How Long Can a School Be Accredited?

Each Accreditation Certification period lasts for five years. Each accredited school must file a yearly self-study report during this certification period. Re-application takes place before the end of year five.

The Texas District Lutheran School Accreditation Commission

To contact the Accreditation Commission, call Mrs. Lee Gaines at 1-800-951-3478 x226 or email lgaines@txlcms.org.

For additional information on private school accreditation, please review the TEPSAC website.