The Accreditation Commission of the Texas Association of Baptist Schools (ACTABS) is dedicated to advancing the gospel through the education and training of Christian schools. As an accreditation organization for private, Christian schools in Texas, we ensure that our accredited institutions meet high standards of academic excellence and Christian values.
Recognized by the Texas Private School Accrediting Commission (TEPSAC), ACTABS guarantees that credits from our accredited schools are fully recognized by colleges and universities. Our rigorous accreditation process helps schools maintain exemplary standards of education and spiritual growth.
Where We Came From
In 1985, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) ceased accrediting non-public schools, leading to the establishment of the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC). ACTABS was one of the 12 founding accrediting agencies of TEPSAC. Formed in March 1985 by a group of administrators from Baptist schools, ACTABS has grown to encompass schools from multiple Protestant denominations, continuing our mission to uphold the highest standards of Christian education.
What We Do
- Accreditation:
We provide a thorough accreditation process for private, Christian schools in Texas, ensuring they meet high standards of academic and spiritual education. - Annual Convention:
We host an annual convention to offer professional development and networking opportunities for school leaders. - Legislation Updates:
We keep headmasters and principals informed about the latest legislative changes that may impact their school. - Support and Guidance:
We offer ongoing support and guidance to schools throughout the accreditation process and beyond.
Join Us
Membership in the Texas Association of Baptist Schools (TABS) is required for a school to seek accreditation with ACTABS. By joining us, you become part of a network dedicated to advancing the gospel through high-quality Christian education.
You can start the accreditation process here.
ACTABS Leadership Team
Our dedicated volunteers at ACTABS are committed to advancing our mission. Each member brings exceptional expertise, ensuring our schools maintain high standards of academic and spiritual excellence, supporting the growth of Christian education across Texas.
ACTABS Officers & Standards Committee
Dr. Brian Guenther
President
San Marcos Academy, San Marcos
Dr. Chris Coy
Vice President
Hyde Park Christian School, Austin
Dr. Randy Wood
Executive Director
Baylor University, Waco
Mrs. Nancy Purdy
Treasurer
Woodway Christian Academy, Waco
Dr. Stan Brook
Standards Chair
Nazarene Christian Academy, Crowley
ACTABS Partners
Our Affiliations, Partnerships, and Associations
The Texas Private School Accrediting Commission (TEPSAC) is a confederation of associations dedicated to maintaining private school accreditation standards. Since 1989, TEPSAC has played a crucial role in ensuring the quality of non-public schools in Texas by monitoring and approving accrediting organizations like ACTABS.
The Texas Education Agency oversees primary and secondary public education in the state, providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems. Through our affiliation with TEPSAC, ACTABS-accredited schools benefit from the recognition and standards set forth by TEA, ensuring that our schools are aligned with state educational requirements.
The Texas Association of Baptist Schools is an association of schools, ministries, and churches linked together in fellowship to advance the gospel through the proliferation, education, and training of Christian Schools.
ACTABS maintains a collegial relationship with the National Alliance of Christian Schools. The two organizations share a common vision of increasing the number, scope, and quality of Christian Schools nationwide. Joint training exercises are often held during the respective conferences.
Many ACTABS high schools participate in The Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools to provide statewide interscholastic competition in academics, art, and athletics. This is the private school version of UIL.
There are many ACTABS elementary and middle schools that compete in academics through the Private Schools Interscholastic Association, which provides statewide competition in academics and art.