Woodcraft Rangers Receives WASC Accreditation

Woodcraft Rangers, a youth-serving nonprofit in Los Angeles, has received WASC accreditation, including for its Camp Woodcraft program. This accreditation, which validates the organization's commitment to providing high-quality educational experiences, was welcomed by Julee Brooks, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Woodcraft Rangers.

The accreditation process, which involved a thorough review by the WASC visiting committee, highlighted several strengths of Woodcraft Rangers. The committee noted the organization's more than a century of service to children and families, supported by a clear mission, organizational stability, and a longstanding commitment to youth development and community engagement. Additionally, the review underscored the wide range of high-quality programs offered, which provide students with opportunities for academic support, leadership development, social-emotional learning, STEM exploration, arts education, wellness activities, outdoor learning, and college and career readiness.

Bonnie Landry, Director of Education Services at Woodcraft Rangers, emphasized the importance of the accreditation process.

The accreditation also recognized Woodcraft Rangers' strong commitment to equity and inclusion. The organization offers specialized services for students with disabilities, bilingual and multilingual supports, family outreach efforts, and practices designed to remove barriers to participation. According to the WASC visiting committee, these efforts ensure that all students and staff have access to quality resources.

WASC, the Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges, defines a Supplementary Education Program as a non-degree, non-diploma granting organization that offers programs, instruction, or education services for elementary, secondary, or adult students. WASC accreditation serves as a mark of quality assurance, validating the program through defined performance criteria. It gives students, families, and communities confidence that the program has quality resources for all students and staff.

Woodcraft Rangers will continue to conduct an in-depth self-study and host a visit by fellow educators mid-cycle during the 2028-2029 school year. The organization will engage staff in a follow-up process to implement, minor, and refine an action plan. This commitment to ongoing improvement underscores Woodcraft Rangers' dedication to providing the best possible educational experiences for its young participants.