FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
One year is the minimum term for boys to be enrolled at Safe Harbor.
Change takes time. Our program and others have learned over the years that 12 months is a minimum period of time for a boy to truly change. Any shorter than that, and we are wasting our time and our money, because he will go right back to the way things were (and maybe even worse). What happens is that it takes roughly 3 months for the boy to actually believe he is going to have to stay here for a year, so throughout that time little progress is made. In months 3-6, the boy begins to open up and think about his behaviors, but he is still dragging his feet while also trying to convince his parents that he is “cured,” begging them to take him home. Months 6-9 bring about the most change, especially after the parent make it abundantly clear that he will stay the full 12 months, regardless. And months 9-12 begin to solidify new habits and thoughts. The boys at this time begin to take responsibility for their behaviors and begin to look at how they once thought and acted as being foolish and childish. These last 3 months are critical to “cement” the thinking and attitudes, before returning home. After 12 months here, most boys will be sad to be leaving.
Students attend school on campus year round.
Yes, if needed or in the best interest of the student.
If your boy graduates high school while at Safe Harbor, he will receive an accredited high school diploma. All academics credits earned (completed) while at Safe Harbor can be transferred back to your local school, if the boy leaves before graduation.
Yes, as with any college, he must be accepted and meet the criteria of that college. A large majority of our graduates attend college within two years of graduation. We strongly encourage all graduates to least attend a community college or trade school for further education.
No, please discuss this with a counselor or the intake personnel when your phone call is scheduled. This is a residential education program and becomes “home” to our students. The staff is sensitive to their needs for privacy, therefore we coordinate our parental interviews so the privacy of all students is respected. Also, we’ve learned from the past that some parents just want to “threaten” their son and have no intention of enrolling them at Safe Harbor. Those visits take up valuable staff time and lead to disruption of our program.
Yes, you will be provided a student to give you a tour. The residents volunteer for this assignment and are willing to share their stories and experience in the program with you.
No, we do not allow personal items such as these.
No, such items are not allowed.
Safe Harbor is small and accredited for just 15 students.
Being committed to the process once you make this decision. Your commitment is vital to further your son’s progress. As such, your firm commitment must also be communicated to your son, so he knows you will not pull him out early. Both parents must be on the same page and committed to this, or the boy will not accept the help he needs, and that includes him having a clear understanding that he will be here for a full year.