Schools for Troubled Teens in South Carolina

Teenage years are the most dynamic of anyone's life. They can be so volatile for some teens that they may begin exhibiting erratic behavior that may include excessive angst and aggression, acting out sexually, poor performance at school, joining a negative peer group, and drug use. Some parents may choose to find a school that can help their troubled teen; those who live in South Carolina have a number of options.

  1. Camden Military Academy

    • Situated in North Camden, this boarding school's philosophy is to develop the "whole man." It aims to mold young men in grades 7 to 12 into well-rounded individuals in body, spirit and mind. The day begins (in the usual military style) at 6:30 a.m. with breakfast, followed by drills and a traditional six-class per day schedule. It's also mandatory for students to take computer literacy and JROTC (Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps). The average class size is 17 students. As of March 2011, tuition for this academy is $19,690 per year.

    Ben Lippen School

    • Located in Columbia, this school aims to integrate religion (Christianity) with academics to bring about a positive change in youth through spirituality. It has almost 800 students, and provides boarding facilities. The school also endeavors to combine co-curricular activities with positive interpersonal relations. It integrates the teachings of the Bible with the curriculum and features small classes for better individual attention. As of March 2011, tuition is approximately $10,000 (for grades 9-10) and $11,000 (for grades 11-12).

    Cherokee Creek Boys School

    • Located in Westminster, this therapeutic boarding school for boys takes in troubled middle-school boys between the ages 11 and 15. Its program is aptly reflected by a commonly used acronym, PATH (Personal enrichment, Academics, Therapy, Health and recreation). The program includes activities such as guitar lessons, sports, martial arts, academics, therapy and counseling, trekking, swimming, and field trips. The staff is augmented by therapists and counselors. Most students enroll for 15-24 months and the school accepts students year-round.

    New Hope Treatment Center

    • This North Charleston facility caters to the needs of troubled teens whose problems are severe and require a great deal of effort (offered in the form of psychiatric help).The center offers residential treatment programs for boys and girls between the ages of 12 and 21 who display offensive sexual behavior, lower cognitive functioning or general psychiatric disorders. It provides onsite, year-round school programming and its staff includes certified clinicians, psychiatrists, trained nurses, and special education teachers.

    2. Previous:

    Next: