Hope Academy continues open enrollment for high school students who are recovering from substance use disorders. Its new location, just south of downtown near IUPUI, is helping reach even more teenagers seek a second chance.
While there are 45 recovery schools for teens across the nation, Hope Academy is the only recovery school in Indiana. It’s tuition-free, and has been a charter school since 2005.
According to Hope Academy, twenty-one percent of Indiana high school students have reported taking prescription drugs without a doctor’s prescription one or more times during their life. In addition, there’s a 40 percent increase in student’s GPA with more than 200 days of sobriety.
Hope Academy is in session Monday through Friday. About 30 students attend to overcome mental health issues and substance abuse. Students who attend Hope Academy are also behind on credits and working to get on track to earn a high school diploma.
The curriculum is the same, but licensed teachers are there to provide additional support. Students are encouraged to address their issues head-on in group discussions, with peer specialists who offer therapy, tutoring and sober after school hang outs.