Chesterfield Recovery Academy

Overview

Chesterfield Recovery Academy is a year-round recovery high school serving students in recovery from substance use disorders. The program provides a supportive academic and therapeutic environment where students can continue working toward graduation while strengthening their recovery. Our program combines individualized academics, counseling services, peer connection and family support to help students achieve long-term success.

The Chesterfield Recovery Academy is accredited through the Association of Recovery Schools. Across the United States, only 12 schools hold this distinction. The evaluation noted in particular that the academy excels in educational practices and its recovery practices have many strong elements, especially mental health support.

Virginia’s first recovery high school, the program opened in August 2022. Recovery high schools are designed for students who are in early recovery from substance-use disorders. Chesterfield Recovery Academy students receive the academic, emotional and social support necessary to complete their high school education. The program provides flexibility to allow students to participate in internships or hold a job while enrolled. This structured system of support and preparation for the future sets students on a path toward continued success.

Student eligibility requirements

Are currently enrolled or eligible to enroll in high school in the participating localities
Demonstrate a desire to pursue and maintain recovery
Have a history of substance use or co-occurring behavioral health concerns that have affected school functioning
Are willing to participate in the recovery-focused supports and expectations of the program
Can participate safely and appropriately within the school environment

Once enrolled, students may remain in Chesterfield Recovery Academy through graduation or may return to their home school when they feel ready to do so. If the academy reaches its enrollment limit, applicants will be placed on a waiting list. Admission continues on a rolling basis as openings become available.

Important notes

Enrollment in the program is voluntary.
Students must actively want recovery and be willing to engage in supports.
Referrals are reviewed through an intake and assessment process.
Placement decisions are based on student needs and program fit.

Participating localities

Charles City County
Chesterfield County
Colonial Heights
Dinwiddie County
Goochland County

Hanover County
Henrico County
Hopewell
New Kent County
Petersburg

Powhatan County
Prince George County
Richmond
Surry County
Sussex County

Academic support

Through CCPSOnline
Opportunities to earn all credits needed for graduation
Credit recovery without traditional seat-time requirements
Flexible scheduling for work or internships
Access to Chesterfield Career and Technical Center programs
Small class sizes and individualized support
Coordination with school counselors and educational teams

Recovery and mental health support

A close-knit community of support helps students navigate through recovery while working to achieve their high school diploma.

Three full-time mental health clinicians and a peer recovery specialist on staff
Individual support sessions and daily support group focused on recovery skill development and relapse prevention
On-site therapy dog
Collaboration with families and outside providers
Social and emotional support throughout the school day

Family engagement

Parent/caregiver communication and support
Opportunities for family education and involvement
Collaboration around student goals and progress

Referral process

Complete the interest form.
Student and family intake conversation
Review of academic and behavioral health needs
Assessment of program fit
Enrollment decision and transition planning

Cost and transportation

There is no cost for students, families, school districts or insurance to participate.
In addition to Chesterfield County Public Schools, the program receives assistance from health agencies, local and state government programs, police and legal agencies to help students navigate through recovery while working toward their high school diploma. The program is funded through legislation approved by the Virginia General Assembly and Virginia’s governor in June 2022.
Transportation is provided by Chesterfield County Public Schools or reimbursed up to $200 per week.

Contact information

13900 Hull Street Road
Midlothian, VA 23112

Email: recoveryacademy@ccpsnet.net
Phone: 804-639-8722

Justin Savoy, MBA, M.Ed., MS
Program Coordinator
804-517-6508
justin_savoy@ccpsnet.net

Nicole Dann
Outreach Coordinator
nicole_dann@ccpsnet.net

Taylor Ingram
Lead Clinician
804-759-9703
taylor_ingram@ccpsnet.net