Arkansas Pilot Accreditation Project
The Arkansas Pilot Project
Microschools are growing rapidly across Arkansas—and with that growth comes an opportunity to build stronger, more sustainable learning environments for students and families. ARISE’s voluntary accreditation pilot is designed to help microschools strengthen their programs, expand access to students across the state, and demonstrate quality as they grow.
For the 2026–27 school year, accreditation is available at no cost to participating Arkansas microschools. New schools can begin through the Founders Track, while schools that have been operating for one year or more can enter the Candidate Track.
Whether you are launching a new microschool or ready to take an established program to the next level, this pilot offers a clear pathway toward greater credibility, stronger systems, and expanded opportunity for the students you serve.
Timeline for Arkansas Pilot Project
The ARISE Arkansas Microschool Accreditation Pilot follows a clear, supportive pathway from application and onboarding through site visits, strategic consultation, and five-year accreditation by June 1, 2027. If you are interested, but want more information, join a live online webinar to learn more about the process, eligibility, timelines, and how to get started.
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Microschools begin their accreditation journey by applying to the pilot and completing the onboarding process. ARISE will help each school understand its accreditation pathway, expectations, and next steps—creating a clear foundation for the work ahead.
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Schools complete required deliverables and participate in an initial site visit with the ARISE team. This phase gives schools an opportunity to tell their story, demonstrate their strengths, and identify areas where focused growth can create even greater impact.
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ARISE works alongside school leaders through follow-up visits and strategic consultations tailored to each school’s needs. Together, we turn insights from the accreditation process into practical strategies that strengthen leadership, learning, operations, and long-term sustainability.
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Schools that successfully complete the process and demonstrate alignment with ARISE standards are awarded five-year accreditation. This milestone recognizes both the quality of the school today and its commitment to continued growth and excellence in the years ahead.
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Accreditation is sustained through a simple annual recertification process, where schools provide assurances that they continue to meet ARISE standards. At the midpoint of the accreditation term, ARISE also conducts a strategic plan check-in to review progress, celebrate growth, and help schools stay focused on their long-term goals.