August 18, 2025
Cognia Accreditation seal
We are bursting with excitement to share that Portland Forest School has officially achieved full accreditation with Cognia! This milestone is the culmination of over two years of dedication and hard work. It marks a true affirmation of our unique educational approach.
The journey was a comprehensive one as our Accreditation Team combed through every aspect of PFS, putting together an inclusive narration and analysis of our school. The process audited our learning modules, examined our general school culture, and ensured we met the standards set by Cognia. We worked internally to share our curriculum, values, and practices with the accrediting body. The process itself has been a true affirmation, showing that we consistently checked all the required boxes from the review team.
This achievement would not have been possible without the collective effort and belief of our entire community. We are thankful to:
PFS Students: For their curiosity, resilience, and daily engagement in our unique learning environment.
PFS Teachers and Staff: For their contribution and help in navigating this extensive process: Teachers Jessa, Dale, Brian, Madeline, Jian, Amanda G and, especially the Accreditation Team—Kate Mitchell, Teacher Jessa, and Krista McLellan
Our Families and Guardians: Many of you participated in interviews, offered insights, and completed surveys, ensuring all voices were heard and included in this process. Your trust in our vision and your active participation truly helped us thrive.
Our Parent Board and Council: For their leadership and commitment in supporting the foundation of our school.
Achieving Cognia accreditation is a powerful affirmation that our hard work as a school, across all facets, is being held to an excellent standard. This designation validates the strength of our academic and social-emotional curriculum, our vibrant school culture, and our ridiculously high standards for safety protocols.
This recognition empowers us even further as we continue to grow and welcome new families, knowing that the unique and educational experiences our students gain are formally recognized for their excellence. We are incredibly proud of what we continue to build together and the great work that continues every day in the forest and beyond.
These last two years have had us move locations, form a board of directors, file for and obtain nonprofit status, and this, achievement of accreditation. The work continues though, as we track and monitor for are view with Cognia… we get to do it again in 3 years!
With so much gratitude,
Ian Abraham
Head of School
Portland Forest School
He, Him, His
Children from Portland Forest School doing school work in nature.