We recognize the importance of having a student using the tools we give them and experiencing the challenges of the real world while in a structured and protected setting. The ultimate step toward that goal is attending a public school and being able to find success – academically, behaviorally, and socially – in that environment.

Students who are ready for this next step in their program will be enrolled in the local public school to continue their academic and therapeutic growth. Our experienced and dedicated staff works closely with each student to monitor and guide them as they encounter challenges in their days. We work closely with the school and teachers to identify each student’s academic needs in order to best help each student during this part of their recovery.

Small School: Our public high schools are small, typically less than 200 students in total. This allows each student to experience a more focused day than perhaps they were able to in their last school. Small class sizes also mean a better teacher to student ratio, and more individualized help. Lastly, there is less anonymity at a school that size – it is simply harder for a student to get lost in the crowd, increasing their personal responsibility.

Supportive Environment: Every teacher at the public school is willing to work closely with our students, offering them any additional help as needed. Because each class will often have more than on Building Bridges student, peer support is always present. And, once back at the house, our academic team is available to provide a final layer of support. All of this comes together to help ensure each student is putting in their best effort and finding academic success.

Extracurricular Activities: Each of the students enrolled in a public school is asked to participate in an extracurricular activity of their choosing, whether that is a sport, academic club, or some other program. Our goal is to have each student become more involved in their school, beyond their classes. This helps build a sense of self-confidence and creates the opportunity for positive social experiences – key pieces of their overall success.

Testing: All juniors and seniors have the ability to take college-level assessments and exams, including SAT, ACT, and ASVAB, as well as any other tests that may be necessary to help them progress towards their next steps after high school.

College and Career Planning: Every student’s academic journey is different. For some, they will head straight into the workforce, others may be headed to a 2 or 4-year school, while others may have military or other aspirations. We understand that each of these has merit for the right students. We work closely with the family and senior students to help plan out the next stages of their lives and come together with a plan that works for all.