The academic programs are highly structured, and class size ranges from four to nine students, allowing individualized programming. During the vacation periods the academic program is suspended while the residential program continues. Though some students go home for some or all of the vacation periods, most stay on campus and participate in holiday celebrations, on-campus activities and community recreation. Visitation and contact with families is encouraged and facilitated both on campus and in the student's home. Supervised visitation is provided until the student and family are comfortable and ready for unsupervised visits.
Families are an integral part of the treatment process.
Students graduating from the adolescent programs have the option of obtaining a Hillcrest Educational Centers' diploma, an IEP diploma, or credit towards a high school diploma in their home school district. While attending school at Hillcrest, students may study for their GED exams or take New York State Regents Examinations. Each adolescent campus offers pre-vocational training and employment opportunities for their students. Choices range from small engine maintenance and repair, to woodworking, to greenhouse and landscaping experience to the challenge of a computerized print shop. Opportunities exist for community volunteer work, internships or paid employment.