Teen Boarding Schools

Many are confused as to what the definition of a boarding school entails. Traditionally, boarding schools were residential treatment programs that would act as a behavior management program geared towards teaching and instilling discipline and good work ethic in young people labeled as troubled youth.

Today, however, these programs reach much farther and are much more encompassing then their predecessors could have conceivably imagined. With the rising abuse of drugs, alcohol, and other harmful substances, as well as emotional and physical abuse, these programs now include drug addiction programs, physical abuse counseling and other programs that address the individual needs of each patient or case dealt with.

Different Types Of Schools

There are several different types of boarding schools. They range from after-school programs that help youth through a group session of counseling, to long-term residential programs that youth may spend up to one year in the program. For more severe drug and/or alcohol abuse, there are in-patient facilities in which the patient receives 24 hour care and supervision from a doctor or nurse.

Residential treatment programs have become increasingly popular over the years due to the success rates that youth who attend are achieving. During the time youth spend at a residential treatment program they will attend classes and earn high school credit. There is also a focus on physical education and programs that teach life skills and life goals that will motivate and encourage these youth to make critical changes that will help them achieve success in life. When students prove themselves in the program, many are allowed to work off campus and earn extra money.

Who attends these schools?

Boarding schools and other related programs are typically geared towards youth that have previously been addicted to drugs and are often members of gangs. These programs are also for youth who have become defiant towards their parents and/or caregivers and authority. Boarding schools also cater to the students who are struggling in the public school setting, offering more individualized schooling and counseling. Boarding schools are not just for youth addicted to drugs or alcohol; many individuals with eating disorders, self-abuse issues, and other mental health disorders attend boarding schools as well.

Who is on staff?

Typically, boarding schools employ a number of doctors and other professionals. Staff at boarding schools includes, but is not limited to:

Doctors

Nurses

Counselors

Therapists

Teachers

Administrators

Youth Workers

Day time/ Night time staff

Because some of the youth come from violent backgrounds and because of their psychiatric condition, the youth under constant supervision by staff. Some programs call it eyeball supervision. This essentially means that 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, staff are present and are aware by any situation that develops. Even while these youth sleep there are staff that will be in the room and will be watching for inappropriate behavior which would possibly cause harm to themselves or others. Each staff member receives specific training to be able to handle any situation, no matter how violent. Each member of the staff are certified CPR within the given state in which the school is located.

Success Rates

The success rate is generally good in these boarding schools and programs. Many youth leave these facilities with a renewed strength and focus to achieve success in their life. Many even gain the power to quit the drugs and alcohol that was previously ruining their lives. After successful completion of the boarding school, these youth are prepared to reenter life.