Local Professional Earns Prestigious Credential

Kristen Campbell (Kristie) of Woodbury Reports in Bonners Ferry, Idaho is part of a growing group of educational consultants and school counselors in the nation to earn the designation of Certified Educational Planner (CEP).

"We are proud to have Kristie receive this certification," said William S. Dingledine, Jr., Chair of the American Institute of Certified Educational Planners (AICEP). "We believe this certification sets the standard for professional college counselors not only in knowledge and experience, but in ongoing professional development. There is no higher mark of distinction in the profession," Dingledine noted.

The profession of Educational Counseling is growing in importance and recognition, as the need for a post-secondary education increases in today's society, as well as appropriate therapeutic placements.

Certification is granted to those consultants and counselors who meet stringent application requirements including a Master's degree, specialized training, significant professional experience, and/or involvement in professional activities and organizations. Kristie had to pass a board certified examination, covering both institutional and professional knowledge; submit a list of professional references; and sign a pledge to adhere to stringent ethical practices.

CEP's are recertified every five years on the basis of college visits, continuing education hours and other professional endeavors. All applicants are reviewed by their peers.

"The group of certified educational consultants and counselors is a remarkable one," noted Dingledine. "Never before in the profession of educational consulting have persons been asked to demonstrate such a high level of professional knowledge and experience," he concluded.

The CEP Program began in 1994 under the sponsorship of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), an association representing full-time experienced professionals in private practice in the field of college guidance and school/educational program placements. "The CEP designation assures families that they are working with a qualified professional who is committed to maintaining the highest quality of service to their students," said Mark Sklarow, Executive Director of IECA.

Information on the CEP program is available through the American Institute of Certified Educational Planners, 617 W. Montecito Ave, Sierra Madre, CA 91024, www.aicep.org.

Kristie Campbell is an educational consultant with a diverse background in the network of private, parent choice schools and programs for at risk youth.