Most people could walk by the school without even noticing it. Teen Express recently spoke with three Sobriety High students by telephone to learn about the school and the effect it has had on their lives. Besides its location, what sets it apart from other schools is that every student has a history of drug or alcohol abuse and has been diagnosed as chemically dependent. While the teachers still focus on academics, they also help students rebuild their lives, both mentally and physically. With only 42 teenagers and five teachers, students often consider Sobriety High a home away from home.
Teachers go by their first names and also serve as counselors.
Judi Hanson, administrator and program director for the school, believes this motto fits. Students are grateful for opportunities to have teachers talk to them with respect and treat them with dignity. They are not trying to prove that they are the person in charge. A lot of these kids come to us with other than sobriety needs. They have some family dysfunction and some mental health needs.