The Journey of Creating Woodhaven Academy
When Woodhaven Academy launched its academic experience in January 2024, it was deeply personal and a mission driven by a passion for education and a profound understanding of the challenges faced by adolescents in recovery.
For too long, high school students in residential treatment programs were relegated to mere tutoring sessions and instructional packets, devoid of genuine engagement or consideration for their mental health and recovery needs. Families faced the difficult choice of prioritizing their child's academic experience or addressing their significant recovery needs.
As an educator who had sacrificed her own loved one’s high school education in pursuit of recovery, I knew we could do better. Woodhaven’s other co-founders, Mike and Mark, shared this sentiment, and we were determined to create a transformative learning environment that seamlessly integrated academic rigor with personal growth and recovery principles.
The path to establishing Woodhaven Academy was paved with love, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to our students' well-being. It was driven by the belief that education and recovery are inextricably intertwined, and that true healing requires nurturing both the mind and the spirit.
Woodhaven Academy began in January 2024 with five high school students who were in varying stages of early sobriety, ranging from five months to over a year. They all lived in our supportive sober living home, Woodhaven on Mulberry. From the outset, our holistic approach fostered an environment where students could excel academically while developing resilience, self-awareness, and life skills necessary for long-term success.
We crafted a curriculum exceeding state and national requirements, infusing recovery-based literature like "Last Night I Sang to the Monster," "Clean," and "Recovery Road," along with films, music, and lots of writing encouraging self-expression and personal reflection. We were honored to host renowned authors Amy Reed and Benjamin Alire Sáenz, who were very impressed with our students during their virtual visits.
Each day began with a student-led discussion centered on recovery themes and Alcoholics Anonymous principles, setting a supportive and engaging tone. Students delved into the science of addiction, explored the complexities of change and adaptation through works like "Who Moved My Cheese?", and honed essential math, writing, and technology skills. Joe, our dedicated program manager, worked closely with the students daily, supporting their academic needs and providing invaluable guidance. Additionally, our substitute teacher and tutor Liam assisted with personalized math instruction, exam preparation, and the creation of each student's own Google site highlighting their individual growth.
Our journey extended beyond our classroom walls through experiential learning adventures including career exploration, college tours, and visits to local and regional landmarks. These experiences provided a deeper understanding of their communities and the world.
As we prepared our students for the transition after high school, they participated in discussions and presentations with career service agencies and were able to apply and access valuable post-graduation services and support. Each student explored careers, completed assessments, and researched potential paths aligned with their strengths and interests. They also toured institutions like Penn State University Scranton and Johnson College. Students enhanced their question-crafting abilities and gained greater confidence when they advocated for programs and services with governmental leaders.
Our program accommodated each student's individualized needs and graduation requirements, including preparation for varied state-required graduation exams and extended day and summer school for those needing enhanced academic work and credit recovery.
There is so much more to share about Woodhaven Academy, and I am always eager to talk about education with those interested. This website offers a more detailed summary of our academic highlights: Woodhaven Academy 2024.
Throughout this incredible journey, our students experienced tremendous success and increased their resilience, determination, and willingness to embrace academic pursuits and further their personal growth. We witnessed their transformation into confident, empowered individuals equipped with the knowledge, skills, and resilience to navigate life's challenges and make meaningful community contributions.
As we celebrate the achievements of our first graduating class, and our integrated approach to recovery high school education, we are filled with immense pride in their remarkable progress and gratitude for the unwavering support of the families and local school districts who believed in our vision and entrusted us with their children's education and well-being.
The journey of creating Woodhaven Academy has been a labor of love, a testament to the power of education and recovery, and a reminder that when approached with compassion, determination, and a commitment to holistic growth, remarkable transformations can occur.
