In the heart of Hampton Roads, a transformative initiative is underway that aims to provide a sanctuary for high school students battling substance abuse. This recovery high school proposal draws inspiration from similar successful endeavors nationwide and carries the personal advocacy of Virginia Beach School Board member Carolyn Weems, whose own daughter, Caitlyn, tragically died from a drug overdose at age 21.
According to the Virginia Mercury Newsite, Carolyn Weems envisions a specialized institution dedicated to helping teenagers overcome addiction while continuing their education. "A recovery high school would have been perfect for Caitlyn," Weems remarked, reflecting on her daughter’s struggle with addiction following a soccer injury in high school. Caitlyn’s battle with pain medication like Oxycontin and Percocet highlights the urgent need for such a facility, where students can receive the necessary support to reclaim their lives.
Andrew Finch, a professor at Vanderbilt University and co-founder of the Association of Recovery Schools, emphasizes the importance of creating a distinct environment for recovery schools. He suggests limiting enrollment to around 30 students and partnering with hospitals, colleges, and other institutions for comprehensive support. Finch also highlights that despite their specialized nature, these schools must provide a robust academic curriculum to ensure students can progress towards graduation and future careers.
The Virginia General Assembly has approved $750,000 over two years to support the development of a recovery academy in the region. Additionally, Virginia Beach has committed $500,000 from a state settlement with JUUL, the e-cigarette company. This funding marks a significant step forward, though many logistical details, such as city contributions, location, and transportation, remain under discussion.
Chesterfield Recovery Academy, the first of its kind in Virginia, serves as a model for Hampton Roads. Opened in August 2022, this school accommodates up to 50 students but typically maintains a smaller enrollment to provide personalized support. Chesterfield’s program coordinator, Justin Savoy, underlines the increased accessibility of drugs and alcohol for students today and the crucial role recovery schools play in combating this trend.
Chesterfield’s academy has a multidisciplinary team, including academic facilitators, clinicians, a peer recovery specialist, and even a therapy dog named Lettie. The school’s requirement for students to have abstained from drugs and alcohol for at least 20 days before enrollment sets a strong foundation for recovery.
Recovery high schools offer a beacon of hope for students and families grappling with addiction. Michael Durchslag, director of P.E.A.S.E. Academy in Minneapolis, notes that while these schools often operate on limited budgets, they are essential resources. They provide an environment where students can focus on recovery and academics simultaneously.
While not a cure-all, recovery schools represent a critical component of a broader strategy to support young people. They offer a structured, supportive environment that can make a significant difference in students' lives, as evidenced by success stories like that of Michael Spain, a Chesterfield student who overcame his struggles and is set to join the military.
For Carolyn Weems, the push for a recovery high school is deeply personal. She advocates tirelessly, driven by the memory of her daughter Caitlyn and the belief that a specialized school could have changed her daughter’s fate. "The things we’re doing now aren’t working," Weems asserts, emphasizing the need for innovative approaches to combat teen substance abuse.
The proposed recovery high school in Hampton Roads symbolizes a proactive step towards addressing a critical issue. By combining educational rigor with dedicated support for recovery, the school aims to offer a lifeline to students in need, fostering hope and resilience in the face of addiction.
If you or your loved one are struggling with a drug addiction or substance abuse, reach out to Avenues Recovery today. We can help you turn your life around!