Applying for Candidate Status
Applying for candidate status signifies that a school community is prepared to reflect on its educational program by engaging in an intensive Self-Study process leading to accreditation. A candidate school has three years to complete the Self-Study, host a Visiting Team, and submit its documents to the WRISA Board of Directors. If the accreditation process is not completed within this timeframe, the school must reapply for candidate status and pay the application fee again.
Before Applying for Candidacy
Before beginning the application process, schools should:
- Wisconsin School Choice Programs – If the school in preparing to enter one of the Wisconsin Choice Programs, pre-accreditation must be completed before candidacy. Please contact the WRISA Executive Director.
- Review Key Documents – Familiarize yourself with the Policy and Procedures Handbook and the WRISA Standards with Quality Indicators available on the WRISA website.
- Consult School Leadership – Discuss accreditation with your school’s governing board, commission, or council and obtain their support and approval.
- Complete Required Information – Fill out all requested details on the application form.
Submitting the Application
- Schools within a WRISA jurisdiction: Submit the application and payment to your jurisdiction’s WRISA representative. If you are unsure who your representative is, contact the WRISA executive director.
- All other schools: Send the application directly to the WRISA executive director at:
WRISA, P.O. Box 154, Sparta, WI 54656
Onsite Visit
An onsite visit is required within three years. The WRISA Executive Director will work with the school to complete the candidacy process.