Apollo Center of Enlightenment


Student Handbook 

Effective 5/9/2026















Boise Campus

Apollo Center of Enlightenment  


2308 N Cole Rd, Suite F

Boise, ID 83704

(208) 724-7599

[email protected]

Mission Statement

Our mission is to help the body and mind Achieve Balance. By teaching massage therapists both Western and Eastern methods of massage and energetic medicine and ensuring that they are well versed in these methods. This course of study is applicable to state occupations board and licensing board standards and align closely to national massage therapy courses of study.

School Philosophy

We believe everyone that wants a massage should be able to not only get one, but to afford one as well. We believe massage is a great way to help resolve issues in the body’s tissues in a noninvasive way. Massage can affect the body in many areas: Physical, Emotional, Spiritual, and Mental. We can be somewhat of a therapist for the whole body.  


History

Apollo Center of Enlightenment was established in 2003 under the direction of Aric Duspiva, to teach principles of Reiki as a healing modality. Aric has been a massage therapist since April 1st ,1997. He graduated from Idaho School of Massage Therapy with the need to be a Massage Practitioner. A few years later he went back to school to finish his full 500-hour degree at Academy of Professional Careers, which he completed in May of 2002. In 2015 Aric began teaching continuing education courses for the state of Idaho and to date has taught more than 30 students. Aric has always had the desire to practice massage therapy and to teach massage and energy work to others. He became a Reiki Master in April of 2000 and began teaching others in the ways of the healing art of Reiki in 2001. 

In 2014 Aric became Head of the Massage Therapy department at the Murano Beauty Academy. He taught there for just over one years’ time, leading two students to complete their massage therapist license. 

In 2003, Aric developed a new type of healing modality called Apollo Therapy. He has since written and published a book titled “Apollo Therapy Book One: The Basics Alpha, Beta, Gamma” and is currently writing a workbook to accompany it.

In the present-day Aric teaches CEU’s for other licensed massage therapists and Reiki when classes are needed. Apollo Center of Enlightenment (A.C.E.) is located in a small office in Boise, ID where Aric works on his clients and holds classes. Never more than two students at a time, he feels that smaller classes are easier to teach and to maximize students' learning Mission Statement

Our mission is to help the body and mind Achieve Balance. By teaching massage therapists both Western and Eastern methods of massage and energetic medicine and ensuring that they are well versed in these methods. This course of study is applicable to state occupations board and licensing board standards and align closely to national massage therapy courses of study.

School Philosophy

We believe everyone that wants a massage should be able to not only get one, but to afford one as well. We believe massage is a great way to help resolve issues in the body’s tissues in a noninvasive way. Massage can affect the body in many areas: Physical, Emotional, Spiritual, and Mental. We can be somewhat of a therapist for the whole body.  


History

Apollo Center of Enlightenment was established in 2003 under the direction of Aric Duspiva, to teach principles of Reiki as a healing modality. Aric has been a massage therapist since April 1st ,1997. He graduated from Idaho School of Massage Therapy with the need to be a Massage Practitioner. A few years later he went back to school to finish his full 500-hour degree at Academy of Professional Careers, which he completed in May of 2002. In 2015 Aric began teaching continuing education courses for the state of Idaho and to date has taught more than 30 students. Aric has always had the desire to practice massage therapy and to teach massage and energy work to others. He became a Reiki Master in April of 2000 and began teaching others in the ways of the healing art of Reiki in 2001. 

In 2014 Aric became Head of the Massage Therapy department at the Murano Beauty Academy. He taught there for just over one years’ time, leading two students to complete their massage therapist license. 

In 2003, Aric developed a new type of healing modality called Apollo Therapy. He has since written and published a book titled “Apollo Therapy Book One: The Basics Alpha, Beta, Gamma” and is currently writing a workbook to accompany it.

In the present-day Aric teaches CEU’s for other licensed massage therapists and Reiki when classes are needed. Apollo Center of Enlightenment (A.C.E.) is located in a small office in Boise, ID where Aric works on his clients and holds classes. Never more than two students at a time, he feels that smaller classes are easier to teach and to maximize students' learning


Table of Contents

  1. Mission, Philosophy, and School History
  2. Non-Discrimination Statement
  3. Admissions and Enrollment Requirements
  4. Attendance Policies
  5. Holidays, Closures, and Emergencies
  6. Tuition, Fees, and Payment Plans
  7. Refund Policy
  8. Tuition Work-Off Program
  9. Student Clinic Requirements
  10. Student Insurance Requirements
  11. Evaluation Methods and Grading Standards
  12. Professionalism Standards
  13. Code of Ethics and Student Conduct
  14. Confidentiality and Release of Information
  15. Draping and Informed Consent
  16. Attire and Professional Appearance
  17. Personal Hygiene and Sanitation Standards
  18. Program Completion Requirements
  19. Academic Standards and Academic Probation
  20. Academic Honesty and Integrity
  21. Respectful Use of School Facilities
  22. Technology and Social Media Policy
  23. Student Records and Privacy
  24. Placement Assistance
  25. Safety and Emergency Procedures
  26. Grievance Policy and Conflict Resolution
  27. Disciplinary Actions and Dismissal
  28. Readmission Policy
  29. Practical Massage Examination Guidelines
  30. Student Disclosure Statement
  31. Student Handbook Acknowledgment
  32. Appendix A – Practical Examination Evaluation Form
  33. Appendix B – Official Grievance Report Form
  34. Appendix C – Official Grievance Response Form
  35. Appendix D – Student Disclosure Signature Page

1. Mission, Philosophy, and School History

Mission Statement

Apollo Center of Enlightenment (ACE) is dedicated to providing high-quality massage therapy education that promotes professionalism, ethical conduct, clinical competency, and compassionate care. The program is designed to prepare students for successful careers in massage therapy while supporting personal growth, wellness, and lifelong learning.

Philosophy

ACE believes massage therapy is both a science and a healing art. Students are encouraged to develop technical skill, critical thinking, professional ethics, and respect for the physical, emotional, and energetic wellbeing of clients.

The school is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment where students can grow professionally while maintaining integrity, accountability, and respect for others.

School History

Apollo Center of Enlightenment was established to provide hands-on massage therapy education in a small-group apprenticeship environment focused on individualized instruction, professionalism, and community wellness.


2. Non-Discrimination Statement

ACE does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, age, sex, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, or veteran status in admissions, instruction, employment, or school activities.

Reasonable accommodations may be provided in accordance with applicable laws.


3. Admissions and Enrollment Requirements

All applicants are evaluated through an application and interview process designed to assess readiness, professionalism, academic preparedness, and ability to safely perform and receive massage therapy.

Applicants must:

ACE reserves the right to conduct background or credit checks at the applicant’s expense.

The apprenticeship-style massage therapy program is designed for completion within approximately 10–12 months with 8–12 instructional hours per week.


4. Attendance Policies

Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes, clinics, and practical training sessions.

Students are responsible for completing all missed assignments and clinic hours.


5. Holidays, Closures, and Emergencies

ACE observes major government holidays and may close due to severe weather, emergencies, or public health concerns.

The safety of students, staff, and clients is the school’s highest priority.

Schedule changes, closures, or emergency notifications will be communicated as quickly as possible.


6. Tuition, Fees, and Payment Plans

The 500-hour Massage Therapy Program tuition is $6,000.

Additional costs may include:

Students are expected to maintain tuition payment arrangements according to their enrollment agreement.

Certificates of completion and transcripts may be withheld until all financial obligations are satisfied.


7. Refund Policy

Refund eligibility is based on percentage of program completion.

Refund requests must be submitted in writing.


8. Tuition Work-Off Program

Students who complete required clinic practicum hours may qualify for tuition work-off opportunities as permitted by applicable law.

Participation is subject to school approval and clinic availability.


9. Student Clinic Requirements

Students must complete a minimum of 110 supervised practicum clinic hours.

Students are expected to:


10. Student Insurance Requirements

Students are responsible for obtaining professional liability insurance through an approved provider.

Proof of insurance may be required prior to clinic participation.


11. Evaluation Methods and Grading Standards

Grading Breakdown

Grading Scale


12. Professionalism Standards

Students are expected to demonstrate professional conduct at all times.

Professionalism includes:

Use of phones or electronic devices during class is prohibited unless authorized by the instructor.


13. Code of Ethics and Student Conduct

Students must:

Violations may result in disciplinary action.


14. Confidentiality and Release of Information

All student records, client records, and proprietary educational materials are confidential.

Information obtained during classes or clinic participation may not be shared without authorization.

Requests for information from outside organizations or media representatives must be directed to the School Director.


15. Draping and Informed Consent

Proper draping procedures must be maintained at all times.

Students must:

Any sexual misconduct, inappropriate behavior, or boundary violation is strictly prohibited.


16. Attire and Professional Appearance

Students must maintain a clean and professional appearance.

Acceptable attire includes:

Revealing, offensive, or inappropriate clothing is prohibited.


17. Personal Hygiene and Sanitation Standards

Students are responsible for maintaining proper hygiene and sanitation.

Requirements include:

Students with contagious illnesses may be required to stay home until medically cleared.


18. Program Completion Requirements

To graduate, students must:


19. Academic Standards and Academic Probation

Students earning below 70% may be placed on academic probation.

Probationary students may be required to:

Failure to improve academic standing may result in dismissal.


20. Academic Honesty and Integrity

Cheating, plagiarism, falsification of records, or academic dishonesty are prohibited.

Students may not:

Violations may result in disciplinary action.


21. Respectful Use of School Facilities

Students are expected to care for school property and equipment.

Students may be financially responsible for lost or damaged items.

Unauthorized removal or misuse of school property is prohibited.


22. Technology and Social Media Policy

Students may not:

Electronic devices should remain silent during class.


23. Student Records and Privacy

Student files are confidential and maintained by the Director.

Official transcripts may be released only with proper authorization and after all financial obligations are satisfied.


24. Placement Assistance

ACE may provide career resources, networking opportunities, and job leads; however, employment is not guaranteed.

Students are encouraged to research state licensing requirements and develop professional business plans.


25. Safety and Emergency Procedures

Students must follow all safety procedures including:

Unsafe behavior may result in disciplinary action.


26. Grievance Policy and Conflict Resolution

ACE provides a fair and professional process for resolving complaints involving students, instructors, staff, therapists, or clients.

Grievances may involve:

Formal complaints must be submitted in writing to the Director.

Retaliation against individuals reporting concerns in good faith is prohibited.


27. Disciplinary Actions and Dismissal

Disciplinary actions may include:

Grounds for dismissal may include:


28. Readmission Policy

Students dismissed or withdrawn from the program may request readmission in writing.

Readmission decisions are based on:

Additional conditions or probationary status may apply.


29. Practical Massage Examination Guidelines

Examination Objective

The practical examination evaluates the student’s ability to safely and professionally perform a full-body Swedish massage.

Required Skills

Students must demonstrate:

Evaluation Categories

Students must earn a minimum score of 70% to pass.


30. Student Disclosure Statement

“I understand that Apollo Center of Enlightenment is registered with the Idaho State Board of Education in accordance with Idaho Code Section 33-2403. I further understand that registration does not constitute accreditation or endorsement by the State Board of Education and that coursework may not transfer to Idaho public postsecondary institutions.”


31. Student Handbook Acknowledgment

I acknowledge that I have received, read, and understand the Apollo Center of Enlightenment Student Handbook.

I agree to comply with all policies, procedures, ethical standards, and professional expectations described within this handbook.

Student Name: ___________________________________

Student Signature: ________________________________

Date: ___________________________________________

School Representative: ____________________________

Signature: ______________________________________

Date: ___________________________________________


Appendix A – Practical Examination Evaluation Form

Student Name: ___________________________________

Evaluator: ______________________________________

Date: ___________________________________________

Evaluation AreaPoints
Professional Appearance10
Client Communication10
Sanitation Procedures10
Draping Technique15
Body Mechanics10
Massage Technique20
Anatomy Knowledge10
Professionalism10
Aftercare Instructions5
Total100

Passing Score: 70%

Evaluator Comments:




Appendix B – Official Grievance Report Form

Date: ___________________________________________

Name of Reporting Individual: ______________________

Individuals Involved: _____________________________

Description of Incident:




Desired Resolution:


Signature: ______________________________________


Appendix C – Official Grievance Response Form

Date Received: ___________________________________

Reviewed By: ____________________________________

Summary of Findings:



Action Taken:


Resolution Date: _________________________________

Signature: ______________________________________


Appendix D – Student Disclosure Signature Page

I acknowledge that I have reviewed and understand all policies, procedures, ethical standards, and professional expectations outlined by Apollo Center of Enlightenment.

Student Name: ___________________________________

Student Signature: ________________________________

Date: ___________________________________________







 “I understand that Apollo Center of Enlightenment is registered with the Idaho State Board of Education in accordance with Section 33-2403, Idaho Code. I also understand that the State Board of Education has not accredited or endorsed any course of study being offered by Apollo Center of Enlightenment and that these courses may not be accepted for transfer into any Idaho public postsecondary institution.” 


______________________________________________________________     Date: ________________ Signature  


I have read and understand the Apollo Center of Enlightenment Student Handbook as written and agree to abide by all of the school policies.  


______________________________________________________________     Date: ________________ Signature


______________________________________________________________

Printed Name


Part I: The History and Advancement of Therapeutic Massage 
  • Historical Overview of Massage

  • Requirements for the Practice of Therapeutic Massage

  • Professional Ethics for Massage Practitioners 

Part II: Human Anatomy and Physiology
  • Anatomy and Physiology Overview

  • Human and Physiology 

Part III: Massage Practice
  • Equipment and Products

  • Sanitary and Safety Practice 

  • Consultation and Documentation 

  • Classical Massage Movements

  • Application of Massage Technique

  • Procedures for Complete Body massage

  • Hydrotherapy 

  • Massage in the Spa Setting

  • Clinical Message Techniques

  • Lymph Massage

  • Additional Therapeutic Modalities

Part IV Pathology and Contraindications
  • Therapeutic Procedures

  • Effects, Benefits, Indications, and Contraindications of Massage

  • Athletic/Sports Massage

  • Message for Special Populations

  • Massage in Medicine 

Part V: Massage Business Administration
  • Business Practices

Students Clinical Internship
  • Internship

For more information about massage classes and dates for starting your journey in to the world of massage therapy and enlightenment email Aric the Apollo Ace at [email protected] or text or call me at 208-724-7599

Visit ApolloAce1.com for appointment times for either a professional massage or the student massage clinic day and times will vary.

Check here for future Student Massage Clinic days and times.

This is Mathew Stone he is the very first graduate from Apollo ACE School of Massage. He is now a licensed  massage therapist.


Others that Have Graduated now

Beverly Cangailosi Oct 31st 2025

Gabrielle Brown Feb 28th 2026