ABE Certificates

 As one aspect of the ʻĀina-Based Education Community of Practice, and modeled loosely after Environmental Education Certificate programs in other states, we are developing Hawaiʻi's-own – ʻĀina-Based Education Certificate (ABEC).

A grassroots, ground-up effort!

What:  A way to recognize and reward educators and students who demonstrate aloha ʻāina – sustaining Hawaiʻi’s unique environment, culture, & people

Why:  To elevate ʻāina-based education as a foundational part of education in our schools and engage students meaningfully in life-long learning

How:  Professional Development programs, Nomination, Other ways (TBD)

Who:  Designed to serve formal educators (teachers) and non-formal educators (e.g. educators at non-profits and government agencies) as well as students grades 10 and up. 

Diversity and inclusion is fundamental, reaching teachers and students from communities throughout Hawaiʻi and involving a wide range of partner organizations to provide outdoor and hands-on training opportunities. While this project is centered on professional development, its impact could be systemic, elevating the prominence of ABE and making it more accessible and commonly practiced. ABE can ignite passion for conservation careers and build a long-term conservation ethic for Hawaiʻi that is needed perhaps more than ever before.