Our History & Mission

The Independent School Alliance has for 30+ years worked to create inclusive communities in predominantly white independent schools in the Los Angeles area. In 1985, we had 18 partner schools. Today, we have over 50. Additionally, since 1999, we've identified and placed over 2,500 students from underrepresented racial groups in the greater Los Angeles area independent schools. Additionally, we have worked tirelessly to build and sustain strategic alliances with other organizations whose mission aligns with the goals of the Independent School Alliances. In 2017, we had a fantastic acceptance rate of 83% of our candidates. This year's candidates were offered a record-breaking $2,455,245.00 in financial assistance. 130 Alliance students have enrolled in our member school communities in the fall of 2017. In addition, in 2017 there were 48 students who graduated from member schools and that are now attending some of the best universities across the country.

In 2016-2017, the National Association for Independent Schools (NAIS) Trendbook stated that "due largely to immigration and higher fertility rates among minorities, half of all school children will be non-Anglo American by 2025" Moving forward, we are in the process of reevaluating our processes and matrixes for success. We want to remain forward thinking and cutting edge in our efforts to level the educational playing field through diversity recruitment placement while also thinking through the future needs of our member schools. Beyond that, we are attempting to engage our member schools in more substantive and frequent programming to ensure that the environment in which our students will arrive is prepared to support their academic, social, and emotional needs in the 21st century.