Standing Tall: Why We’re Pursuing Accreditation at Life Project Education
Dear Families,
We’re excited to share a major step forward in the evolution of Life Project Education: this summer, we’ve officially begun the process of seeking international accreditation. After careful research and consultation, we have chosen to pursue two respected pathways:
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
The Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA-CESS)
This is not just a formality, it’s a powerful affirmation of who we are, what we’ve built together, and where we’re going. It reflects our deep commitment to honoring the growth of our students and the integrity of our model as we rise into high school and beyond.
Why Accreditation—And Why Now?
It’s no secret that Alys has long held a healthy skepticism around traditional accreditation systems (and with good reason). Much of what we’re building at LPE challenges outdated paradigms.
And yet, through deep reflection and dynamic dialogue, it’s become clear: this is not about surrendering to a system; it’s about boldly bringing our revolutionary approach into the spotlight with legitimacy, protection, and empowerment.
This decision positions us to:
Issue internationally recognized high school diplomas directly as Life Project Education
Provide smooth access to college admissions, visa applications, and international school transfers
Strengthen our internal systems of reflection, assessment, and growth, without compromising our values
Why Two Applications?
To best position ourselves for success and ensure alignment with our unique identity, we are pursuing both WASC and MSA-CESS.
While we would feel confident and proud with either accreditation outcome, there are key distinctions:
WASC is highly selective and currently does not have any accredited K–12 schools in Costa Rica. While this makes the process more ambitious, it also presents an opportunity to pave the way.
MSA-CESS, meanwhile, has a strong track record with international and mission-aligned schools like ours and offers a supportive, collaborative approach to accreditation.
Pursuing both pathways reflects our seriousness, maturity, and readiness to step into this next chapter not just to “fit in” to global standards, but to influence them.
From Umbrella School to Standing on Our Own
For the past 10 years, we’ve partnered with Oak Meadow (2014-2016), Global Village School (2017-2023) and West River Academy (2023-2025), all creative and flexible umbrella schools that provided legal recognition and grade-level validation. These partnerships have been essential in supporting families navigating local and international systems, and we are grateful for their role in our journey.
But now, as our students rise into adolescence with clarity, brilliance, and many with university-bound vision, one thing has become clear:
We’re ready to stand on our own.
What This Means for Our Community
Our curriculum remains holistic, bilingual, nature-immersive, and project-based
Our core values: Earth guardianship, community, personal growth, and creative freedom remain non-negotiable
Our leadership, faculty, and families continue co-creating a learning environment that honors the whole child
Our oldest students and future graduates will receive internationally recognized diplomas that reflect not just academic rigor, but soul
The accreditation process will command review and refinement of our curriculum and evaluation, student support services, governance, risk management, administrative processes, and annual schoolwide action plans. This process will invite our Parent Advisory members to contribute to this collaborative process.
In Conclusion
As families around the world seek meaningful, human-centered education, we are no longer just an alternative—we strive to be a beacon.
Accreditation with an aligned and reputable organization allows us to meet practical needs (transcripts, diplomas, mobility) without diluting our soul. It ensures our students’ transformational work is not only felt—it’s fully recognized.
We’re proud to embark on this journey with you.
With gratitude and determination,
The Life Project Education Leadership Team
