In the United States, around 21 million individuals struggle with some form of addiction, and alarmingly, over 90% of these individuals began using alcohol or drugs before reaching 18. The simplistic mantra of “just say no” has proven ineffective, and the multi-trillion-dollar war on drugs has yielded disappointing results. Clearly, a more comprehensive approach is needed to tackle the pervasive issue of substance abuse. Rather than continuing to rely on ineffective methods, we should be prioritizing resources like recovery high schools—institutions specifically designed to support students in recovery from substance abuse and related mental health challenges, such as anxiety or depression. Unfortunately, many people remain unaware of these vital educational options.
Historically, public schools have struggled to accommodate students with substance abuse issues. Given the numerous responsibilities placed on educators—from managing classrooms to completing extensive paperwork—it’s understandable that they often lack the necessary training and resources to adequately support this specialized group. Andrew Jones, co-founder of the National Recovery Schools Alliance and an educator at a leading recovery school, expresses concern over this longstanding gap in adolescent treatment. “Recovery schools serve as a crucial bridge for students in need,” says Jones.
Like any public school, recovery high schools fulfill state educational requirements, albeit at a pace tailored to the needs of their students. These institutions typically have a staff that includes substance abuse counselors and mental health professionals. Many programs require students to participate in external treatment while they also work towards their educational goals. Furthermore, recovery high schools often engage family members, providing them with tools to support their teen in recovery while also addressing their own needs.
While the primary mission of recovery high schools is to educate students in recovery, they offer much more. Anna White, a parent from Harmony Academy, praises the school for fostering self-acceptance and personal growth. “It’s not just about sobriety; it’s about nurturing the whole individual,” she stated. Unfortunately, Harmony Academy stands alone as Oregon’s only recovery high school.
These institutions create a supportive community, which is essential for students’ recovery journeys. By connecting with peers who share similar experiences, students can escape the isolation that often accompanies substance abuse. “It’s a close-knit community…like a second family,” explains Sarah Mills, a student. “I never felt this sense of belonging in my previous school.” Counseling director David Roberts at a Seattle recovery school echoes this sentiment, highlighting the importance of peer engagement for young people in recovery.
However, reintegrating students into environments filled with non-sober peers can jeopardize their progress. During high school, friends often exert greater influence than parents, regardless of the nature of their choices. A 2020 study found that nearly 37% of high school seniors reported using illicit drugs in the past year, while over 56% admitted to consuming alcohol. This implies that the majority of students are encountering choices that may hinder their recovery journey. Remarkably, students who attend recovery schools have a relapse rate of only 30% within six months of completing the program—significantly lower than traditional interventions. As one student from Bridge Academy shared, “Returning to my old school would have been a death sentence for me.”
Despite their effectiveness, recovery high schools remain scarce, with only 34 operating across the nation. These schools cater to about 2,000 students grappling with addiction, an alarming figure when considering the over two million adolescents who used drugs in the past month. This represents a vast number of at-risk youths who are being overlooked by the conventional education system.
The hesitation to expand recovery high schools often stems from financial concerns. New Jersey State Senator Michael Bennett, who helped establish the state’s first recovery high school, points out that districts are reluctant to lose per-student funding. “It’s disheartening to see schools prioritize finances over the well-being of students,” Bennett stated. While funding disparities exist, the average annual cost per pupil at recovery schools is approximately $16,000 to $18,000, contrasting with $11,000 at traditional high schools. Some districts are unwilling to divert funds from established schools, regardless of the potential benefits for struggling students.
Additionally, societal stigma plays a significant role in this resistance. Educators at recovery schools often encounter attitudes suggesting that young people battling addiction are expendable. “These are remarkable kids facing immense challenges,” remarked teacher Rachel Adams. “They deserve our support, not dismissal.”
It’s high time we shift our perspective and recognize that students in recovery are not “throwaway” kids, and recovery high schools should not be considered “throwaway” institutions. We must advocate for the normalization of recovery high schools in our educational system.
For more insights on this topic, check out this related blog post and learn more about the best practices for home insemination, as well as intrauterine insemination.
Search Queries:
- recovery high schools
- substance abuse education
- support for teens in recovery
- benefits of recovery high schools
- mental health resources for students
In summary, recovery high schools play an essential role in supporting students on their journey to sobriety and personal growth. Unfortunately, they remain underrepresented in our educational landscape, leaving many at-risk youth without the support they need. It’s crucial that we advocate for these institutions to become standard in our education system, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to recover and thrive.