(1)(a) A recognized accrediting body shall meet the definition of such pursuant to WAC 180-55-015(8).

(b) Accrediting bodies recognized by the state board of education shall verify that standards for approved private schools seeking accreditation through them meet or exceed the school accreditation standards pursuant to WAC 180-16-220.

(c) Accrediting bodies recognized by the state board of education for the specific purpose of accrediting state board approved private schools, prior to being considered by the state board for recognition, shall have their accreditation standards verified for compliance under (b) of this subsection by a private school advisory committee established by the superintendent of public instruction. If verified, the committee may recommend the accrediting body to the state board for recognition.

(d) A list of recognized accrediting bodies will be maintained on the website of the state board of education.

(2) Private schools must be approved by the state board of education prior to being recommended by a state board of education recognized accrediting body or process for state accreditation consideration.