Both Granger and Provo are in the third year of advised status; if they don't improve next go-around, they'll be warned — one step above losing accreditation.

Provo is making strides. "I would anticipate next year Provo's going to be approved," Morgan said.

Provo also had one underqualified teacher, a standard that mirrors that of No Child Left Behind, which bans teachers from teaching outside the subject of their major. So it may be that a star math teacher could be found underqualified because she also teaches chemistry, for example.

Hillcrest had five underqualified teachers when the report was submitted, but the school since has improved on that and has received additional teachers to tackle deficiencies, said June LeMaster, Jordan District executive director over the Hillcrest area.

Meridian, a school for preschoolers through high school seniors, lacks state-certified teachers, though many have master's and doctorate degrees, spokeswoman Kris Crowther said.

Loutensock said some teachers are Brigham Young University faculty.

The school is seeking accreditation through the Pacific Northwest Association of Independent Schools, which offers rigorous standards with flexibility. Loutensock said the state will carry its Northwest accreditation through the process.

Navajo Mountain in rural San Juan County is grappling with a 50 percent teacher turnover, resulting in a lack of student support and a need for more professional development, Hales said.

"We're confident the new principal is going to work on issues," Hales said.

Three private schools lost accreditation. Legacy private school in Syracuse and High Point Academy in Duchesne County are believed to have closed. The Ronald N. Hatch Academy in Washington County, attached to the Eagle Dancer Youth and Family Services, is no longer a school; the foster care program now uses online classes, director Scott Smith said.

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