Boot Camps & Military Schools in Georgia

If your teen is out of control and engaging in self-destructive behavior, you may have considered military school or boot camp as a solution. While determining a full-time care program for your child is an emotional decision, there are certain factors to consider before selecting. At Help Your Teen Now, our mission is to inform and educate you about your options so that you can make the best decision possible for your child. Our complimentary consultation and assessment help us steer you toward the resources and programs specific to your situation and needs. We have helped hundreds of families like yours and know we can help you feel confident in your ultimate decision. Call us today, and we will help you explore the options in your area.

To see if a military school for troubled teens is the best choice for your teen – Click Here or call Help Your Teen Now at 1-800-901-7347.

Boot Camps Are Not The Best Option for Troubled Teens from Georgia

While military school or boot camp might seem like the ideal option for a struggling teen with behavior issues, it might not be the best solution. Specific requirements and differences within these programs keep them from being the best fit for your struggling child. For instance, in many cases, military schools and academies are intended for students who wish to prepare for a career in the armed services while earning an education. They are non-therapeutic and will not tolerate students who act out or refuse to accept authority. 

Boot camps were created as a strict environment for teens with behavior issues. However, the short-term, restrictive military approach has been shown to do little for long-term recovery. Some boot camps are not very well regulated and have been considered unsafe. We urge parents looking into these programs to consider a more therapeutic approach to correcting behavior, such as alternative or therapeutic boarding schools. Not only do these facilities offer a consistent education, but they are also staffed with employees with experience treating troubled teens. Alternative and therapeutic boarding schools ultimately have a higher long-term success rate and offer your child a better chance of a sound future. 

Georgia Regulatory Laws

A state-approved agency must accredit a private facility to participate in the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship (GSNS) and/or the Georgia Private School Tax Credit. Although teaching certification is not required for private schools in Georgia, nonpublic schools enrolling students under the (GSNS) program require that teachers have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree. Additionally, instructors must have at least three years of experience in health or education. Nonpublic school curriculum must include reading, mathematics, language, arts, social studies, and science. O.C.GA §20-2-690(b)(4), (d). Nonpublic schools in Georgia must meet health and safety standards defined by local and state ordinances. O.C.GA §20-2-690(b)(6), (d). Manufacturing, distributing, or possessing a controlled substance within 1,000 ft of a private school is a felony. O.C.GA §16-13-32.4(a).

Reference: http://www2.ed.gov/admins/comm/choice/regprivschl/regprivschl.pdf