Pathway of the Essene's 
| Youth Education Support|

Pathway of the Essene is committed to ensuring that accredited programs meet the highest standards of safety, staff qualifications, and environmental outcomes. Our Accreditation Commission is responsible for reviewing and approving applications based on the rigorous standards we uphold for youth programs in the regions we serve (zip codes 56474, 56655, and 56672).

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We focus on accrediting high-caliber programs that:

• Implement strict safety protocols to ensure the well-being of all participants, especially in outdoor and nature-based settings.

• Prioritize comprehensive staff training, recognizing the high-risk nature of many programs. Staff members are expected to maintain high levels of competence and readiness through ongoing education and safety training.

• Deliver measurable program outcomes that foster a deep connection with nature, aiming to cultivate environmental stewards and protectors through experiential learning.

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We offer accreditation for the following types of programs:

• Supplemental Education Programs

• Nature-Based Programs

• Alternative Learning Modules

• Enrichment Programs

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Accreditation Requirements:

1. Safety Standards: Programs must provide detailed safety policies and procedures, including risk assessments for nature-based activities.

2. Staff Training: Programs must show evidence of ongoing staff training in first aid, wilderness safety, and child development.

3. Program Outcomes: Accredited programs must demonstrate a clear focus on environmental education and stewardship, aligning with our goal to cultivate responsible and environmentally aware individuals.

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​A one-time POE Accreditation Application Fee of $3000 is due at time of initial application submission. 

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Yearly membership fee of $300 is due each September to remain in accredited through our service. ​

POE Accreditation Steps for
Supplementary Education Programs
Step 1. Complete and Submit POE Accreditation Application
Submit the nonrefundable $3000.00 application via PayPal or check. 
The POE Application and additional information are available HERE. If you have any questions regarding the
accreditation process, please feel free to contact us.
Step 2. Complete and Submit the Initial Visit Description Report
The completed POE Application will be reviewed to determine whether the program is eligible for POE accreditation. Eligible You will then be sent an Initial Visit Description Report to complete.
Once approved, the administration of the program will be provided access to the POE Accreditation Member page which will provide initial visit materials and the initial visit report template for completion. 
Step 3. Initial Visit Fee
An initial visit will be scheduled, and the administration of your program will be notified of an Initial Visit fee, if any is determined. 
Step 4. On-site Initial Visit
A mutually acceptable date for the visit will be selected by the program administrator and the chairperson of the visiting
committee. A visiting committee will be sent to review the information contained in the Description
Report and to gather additional information.

During the on-site visit, our team will review safety protocols, staff qualifications, and program outcomes to ensure they align with POE’s accreditation standards. Our commission will evaluate whether your program demonstrates the integrity and impact necessary to receive our seal of accreditation.
Step 5. Commission Action
The visiting committee member will provide a report and recommendation to the POE Accreditation Commission. The
Commission will make a final determination whether to grant Initial Accreditation, Candidacy for Accreditation, or
to withhold POE accreditation.
Step 6. Notification
The Commission meets once a year in August. The program administrator will be notified in writing of the
Commission’s action and will receive a copy of the visiting committee report. Programs are required to pay POE membership fees for the year in which they are granted initial or candidacy status and every year thereafter.

Step 7. Changes or Re-Evaluations

If a program changes procedure or materials that changes outcomes submitted to the POE Committee, a revised addendum must be submitted and the POE Committee will determine if re-application is necessary. 

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Join Our Community of Accredited Programs

Once accredited, programs will have access to POE's resources, including safety training workshops, annual updates, and ongoing support to help programs grow while maintaining the highest standards of excellence.

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A seal of Accreditation will be included in acceptance awards for website use. 

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For an application, please submit a request here. 

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Authentic and Authorized Seal: