The Family Foundation School Graduates 42

The Family Foundation School granted forty-two students New York State Regents Diplomas during festivities held June 26, 27 and 28, 2008, bringing the total of graduates during the 2007-08 school year to 73. Continuing a school tradition, each graduate was given the opportunity to share their experience, strength, and hope with the entire school community and invited guests. The Family Foundation School, which offers rolling admissions, holds graduation ceremonies each year in June and December. For more information visit www.thefamilyschool.com.

Happy Second Birthday Betton House

It's been two years since Mike and Roxi Losicco said goodbye to The Family Foundation School and moved down to Scranton to launch Betton House. But the school's loss was a gain for alumni and others seeking to extend their recovery. Three Family Foundation School graduates were the first Betton House residents, and more than 30 other FFS grads have since followed.

In the two years since the doors opened, Betton House has served more than 80 students transitioning from rehab or a structured program into college and the work world. They've all benefited from the home-like atmosphere of Betton House, the support of professionals and like-minded peers, and the opportunity to continue their education at five local colleges and universities. But the biggest advantage of living in this "sober dorm" is the Betton House community-Mike, Roxi, and the close-knit residents who help one another succeed in school and on the job, and who have shared a ton of sober fun. For more info visit www.bettonhouse.com.

NATSAP Executive Director
Testifies on the Hill

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 10, 2007)—State regulatory agencies have an important role to play in the protection of at-risk children and teens enrolled in therapeutic schools and programs, according to testimony by the head of the industry's national trade association. “The need to protect our children and provide for their well being is not a topic for debate—the question is how we can work together to safeguard and help those who need specialized schools and programs,” said Jan Moss, Executive Director of the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP), in testimony before the House Committee on Education and Labor. “There is no room for programs or schools that provide substandard and inadequate care, or those who seek to avoid accountability.”

Residential placement programs and schools serve teenagers, young adults, and families who are coping with behavioral, mental health, and substance abuse issues, when public schools and community-based programs have failed. Hundreds of well-run programs across the country have brought thousands of children and families back from the brink of destruction, according to NATSAP.

“As the numbers of kids who attempt suicide, engage in destructive and criminal behavior, and fail to graduate from High School rise, concerned parents have turned to therapeutic schools and programs,” said Moss. “We are committed to working with Congress, the states, other organizations, and parents to ensure that regulations and legislation provide for realistic and workable therapeutic programs that meet the highest standards of care.” The National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs represents more than 180 programs and professionals assisting young people with emotional and behavioral difficulties. According to NATSAP, parents considering placement of a child at a private residential treatment program should look for licensed and accredited facilities with a longstanding record of safety and a licensed and qualified staff of therapists, teachers and administrators. For more information, or a copy of Jan Moss’ testimony, please go to www.natsap.org.