Shortridge Academy

My son went to Shortridge after 9 weeks in wilderness therapy. My husband and I immediately liked the way we felt at SA that first day we visited on our journey to select a school. It was the right fit for our family ( a 5 hour drive, wooded, coed, good accommodations, smart caring staff, impressive educational and therapeutic program) and our son graduated 10 months later. SA kept us informed and supported us the entire 10 months. The teachers and therapists were great with the kids and surprisingly effective. SA helped us with home contracts and guidance welcoming our son back into our family. I keep in touch with one therapist on our son's progress to this day. She has helped us navigate difficult times since he left SR. Looking back i think we were very lucky to find Shortridge. And our son is still in touch with a number of boys from SA.

I have only good things to say about Shortridge Academy.nThis was our son's 3rd school in 3 years. He was experiencing some significant challenges academically and was looking for a school that was the right fit.. The individual attention the professionals and staff provided helped both him - and our family during a difficult time. They were there for him on an academic level - and a personal level regardless of the day of the week or hour of the day. He grew as a student and as a person while there and has subsequently done very well. We appreciated the structured environment, progressive opportunities for growth and the constant communication from the academic and health professionals working with him. We were very lucky to find Shortridge when we did.

My wife Kathy and I sent our 16 y/o daughter to Shortridge in early 2020. All in all, it was a great experience for her and the work she did there appears to be sticking and propelling her into a future that once seemed dim. Presently, she's enjoying and doing well in her junior year. We both recommend the academy to anyone seeking help for their teen.

I’m probably going to leave a lengthy review but hopefully these words help with any future son, daughter, person, parent, etc. involved in a journey with Shortridge Academy...nnShortridge isn’t for everyone. In fact, when I’ve gone back and spoken to students regularly over the past 5 years (2016-2021, present)...I tell the students that very statement when explaining my story. BUT it’s what you make of it.nnI attended the school from June 2007-December 2008 & when I say my life was about to be over before attending Shortridge...it was. Shortridge gave me hope, a second chance. I revealed and began healing trauma that I held in for nearly a decade because of what that school embodies. Shortridge is always evolving, making changes and is a therapeutic vessel, but the core principles are the same. Healing, hope, and a way forward.nnI have a music career because of this program. I learned how to convey my feelings through hip hop and rapping. Quite honestly, now that I’m 30, I would have never done any of the things I’ve accomplished in my weird-artistic life if it wasn’t for Shortridge. I’ve seen parts of the country and taken risks because I found what I loved doing, while I was there. I found “my voice” and I’m forever grateful.nnI’ve worked for therapeutic programs in my home state during my late 20s. They ALL have flaws, things that don’t hit the mark, an idea that isn’t a “home run”, and they certainly aren’t the perfect fit for every child that attends. But if your child is sincerely willing and hopeful to get the most out of a situation...Shortridge will be nothing short of a life altering catalyst for you and your family.nnHopefully this helps and don’t hesitate to reach out.nnRegards,nnOWEN L // DRENT

Shortridge is an exceptional program. I found it not only academically excellent but also first rate in the mental health support they provide. As a clinician, I whole heartedly recommend the school. - JDW