by Mark D. Weinstein, Executive Director of Public Relations
ACSI, Cedarville University Launch New Strategic Initiative
The Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) has entered into a strategic partnership with Cedarville University, a leading Christian institution of higher learning located in Cedarville, Ohio, to provide an Alternative Certification Track for educators seeking ACSI certification.
A New Pathway to ACSI Teacher Certification
This initiative expands ACSI’s ongoing efforts to equip and support teachers who are called to serve in Christian education but may not have completed a traditional teacher training program. The Alternative Certification Track will offer comprehensive, biblically integrated coursework designed to strengthen teachers’ knowledge, faith, and professional practice.
“We are excited about our partnership with Cedarville,” said Stephen Deck, ACSI Vice President of Educational Standards. “It is a wonderful opportunity for Cedarville and ACSI to work together to create a pathway for individuals seeking to answer the call to Christian education from other careers or who may hold a degree outside the field of education, to obtain a Standard Level ACSI Certificate. This new pathway reflects our commitment to equipping Christian educators with the tools and training they need to thrive in their calling.”
Cedarville’s Role in Christian Teacher Preparation
ACSI has chosen Cedarville University as a strategic partner, citing the institution’s long-standing relationship with the organization and its nationally respected teacher-education program.
The university’s unwavering commitment to producing highly effective Christian educators has positioned it among the nation’s leaders in teacher preparation. This new collaboration underscores the shared mission of both institutions to equip future teachers with strong professional skills grounded in a Christ-centered philosophy of education.
“We are honored to join ACSI in advancing this important initiative,” said Dr. Kevin Jones, Dean of Cedarville’s School of Education. “With nearly 100% of our graduates securing teaching positions shortly after commencement, our faculty and students are eager to support a project that will strengthen Christian education.”
Online Certification Program for Aspiring Christian Educators
Through this collaboration, Cedarville University will contribute biblically integrated academic content to the educational modules that comprise the program, including topics such as classroom management, instructional strategies, assessment and evaluation and professionalism.
ACSI will oversee course design, technical development and delivery through its digital learning platform.
The Alternative Certification Track will be available through ACSI’s learning management system as part of its professional development offerings. Educators who complete the program will be eligible for a Standard Level ACSI Teacher Certificate.
For more information about ACSI Certification, visit acsi.org/certification. Additional information specifically regarding the Alternative Certification Track will be released in spring 2026.
About the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI)
Headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colorado, ACSI exists to strengthen Christian schools and equip Christian educators worldwide as they prepare students academically and inspire them to become devoted followers of Jesus Christ. ACSI advances excellence in Christian schools by enhancing the professional and personal development of Christian educators and providing vital support functions for Christian schools through multiple services, including teacher and administrator certification, school accreditation, legal/legislative assistance and curriculum publishing. Serving more than 25,000 schools in 108 countries, ACSI helps more than 5.5 million students worldwide connect to Christian education.
About Cedarville University
Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences and professional fields. With 7,265 students, it is among Ohio's largest private universities and is ranked among the nation’s top five evangelical universities in the Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.
