Before you shortlist an academy: most parents searching for a military school have a teen it will not help. Why military schools usually backfire for a troubled teen, and who they genuinely fit, plus the alternatives.
Do you need help with your troubled teenager? Are you searching for Military Schools for your defiant teen in Houston?
The majority of Military Schools are a privilege to attend. You may find a few that will accept your at-risk teen, but keep in mind, they typically have policies in place for behavioral issues that are not much different than the school you are leaving. One difference will be that when (or if) your child is expelled or asked to leave, it is highly probable you will forfeit your tuition.
Military Schools annual fees approximately are $25,000.00 and up. We have heard from many families that have fallen into this trap – and it an expensive mistake to make, but more than that, you are setting your teen up for failure.
When you have a teen that is belligerent, underachieving, lacks motivation, has lost interest in their favorite activities, changing friends and becoming secretive or withdrawn, these can be red flags that there is more going on internally (emotionally) than what Military School would be able to provide.
Military Schools do not provide a clinical or emotional growth setting for a teen that is struggling with mental health issues. Â They will not be able to help your son or daughter with the problems that are causing this negative or risky behavior. Or if they are using drugs or drinking at home, it is likely they will continue this behavior at Military School too.
These are open campuses and it’s likely day students will bring in drugs or alcohol. If your teen was using drugs or drinking at home — don’t be naïve to believe they won’t engage in this behavior at a Military campus. Only this time — when they are asked to leave, not only are you left with finding a new school, you will lose your tuition.
Is a military school for troubled youth right for a Houston teen?
Military schools near Houston offer a structured environment, small class sizes and a high school diploma track. They work best for teens who are unmotivated but not in crisis. Most private military academies screen out students with serious behavior problems, and few have mental health staff.
Texas also takes part in the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program. This free challenge academy accepts teens about 16 to 18 who have left school or are falling behind. It combines a military-style residential phase of about five and a half months with academics, life skills and a year of mentoring.
If your teen’s problems include depression, anxiety, substance use or aggression, look at therapeutic options first. We help Houston families compare military schools, therapeutic boarding schools and residential programs at no cost.
Also read:
Goals of Boarding Schools for Troubled Teens
How Bullying Impacts A Teen’s Mental Health
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If you have exhausted your local resources for help for your troubled teen, learn more about how residential treatment or a therapeutic boarding school could benefit them. Contact us today.
