Independence Academy Programs
The Upper Course
10-Day Program
This short-term intervention program is run by our team of experts and is grounded in the basic belief that adolescents who are engaging in high-risk or problematic substance use deserve an opportunity to learn and develop an understanding of the complexities of adolescent development as opposed to only being met with punitive measures.
The Upper Course allows schools to provide a proactive intervention or an alternative to suspension for youth identified as “high-risk”.
It is designed to help adolescents gain awareness and insight into 13 key areas of their life and to develop an understanding of how they can make internal and external changes in order to develop a healthier mindset.
Building trusting relationships with students quickly is critical and allows students an opportunity to be vulnerable and forthcoming which in turn creates an opportunity for awareness, growth, and change.
High-interest and developmentally appropriate materials and strategies are used in both individual and group formats to carry out our work.
Program Highlights
- Duration: 10 school days
- Eligibility: Students ages 14-18 who are determined to be “high risk” or who are suspended from school for a substance-related offense.
- Days/Time: Monday – Friday (8:45AM – 12:30PM)
- Admission: Students are enrolled on a “rolling admissions” basis and can generally start the next school day. However, the number of students that can enroll into this program is limited to 6 so that may influence a student’s start date.
- Academics: Provided from the district to the program and/or student. Students will receive academic support and instruction from regular education and special education teachers.
- Focus: Awareness and Assessment
This is currently offered at no cost to districts due to grant funding from the MA Department of Public Health
What Does a Day in The Upper Course Consist Of?
IA Programs
Upper Course
Adolescents engaging in high-risk or substance use deserve an opportunity to gain an understanding of the complexities of adolescent development in a positive setting
45-Day Program
This succesful program connects students struggling with personal and/or substance abuse issues with adolescent development, substance use, and mental health specialists
Recovery High School
Students who complete Independence Academy's 45-day short term program and want to continue to realize their true potential can enroll at the Recovery School
Consultation
Our experienced team will consult with the parent/caregiver and provide three, one-hour sessions with the teen and an additional one-hour follow up session with the parent or caregiver