AIMS is a vibrant association of about 120 independent schools in Maryland and the District of Columbia. These schools serve more than 45,000 students in grades PK - 12. AIMS' mission is to support its member schools by providing: Professional development workshops, conferences, and retreats for teachers, administrators, and school trustees. AIMS events, which total more than 70 each year, include the Annual Conference at the Baltimore Convention Center, attended by more than 2000 educators and more than 100 exhibitors; a technology retreat on the Eastern Shore; the annual conference for Heads of Schools in Annapolis; and many others throughout the year. Rigorous and effective accreditation services. The AIMS accreditation process holds member schools accountable to standards and supports their ongoing efforts to strengthen their curriculums and pedagogy. Public advocacy that protects their independence from governmental regulation. The Executive Director is available to make presentations to the Boards of Trustees of AIMS-member schools on the strategic environment and trustee decision-making in uncertain times.