boarding schools for troubled teens In Maine

Help Your Teen Now is a parent advocacy group that understands the stress that comes along with raising a troubled teen. If your path has led you to the point of considering an alternative or therapeutic boarding school, then you have come to the right place. With our knowledgeable staff, our database of trustworthy information and our years of experience, we have helped hundreds of families just like yours. There are many factors to consider with this decision and we are dedicated to making sure you have access to the specific information you need without spending hours online. Take the first step to heal your family and call us today.

Do Schools for Troubled Teens in Maine Work?

Schools for troubled teens in Maine can be highly effective when matched to a teen’s emotional and behavioral needs. These programs typically provide a blend of academic support, therapeutic counseling, and structured routines that help struggling teens find stability. While Maine may have fewer options compared to larger states, many families find success through regional or out-of-state schools that specialize in adolescent care. Understanding what “bad kid” schools are really called can help parents evaluate which approach is right.

To find the right match for your teen, Contact Help Your Teen Now—our services are completely free, and we’ll help you navigate every option.

When Should You Consider a School for Troubled Teens in Maine?

If your teen is consistently acting out, falling behind academically, or facing mental health challenges that are beyond what local schools or outpatient care can handle, it may be time to consider a therapeutic school. Maine families often face the tough decision to seek help when home interventions no longer work. Residential programs can offer the reset your teen needs, especially when behaviors like defiance, school refusal, or substance use are involved. You might also explore our guide on residential treatment centers for teens for more context.

Need guidance? Help Your Teen Now is here to support you at no cost. Let’s find the right next step for your family.

Maine Regulatory Laws

While official Accreditation is not required, Approval or Recognition by the Maine Department of Education is mandatory. A private school must meet the attendance, health and safety standards as set out in the state regulations. Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. Title 20-A, §2902. Periodic review of nonpublic schools by the commissioner is necessary to maintain approval status. Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. Title 20-A, §258-A.

All teachers and instructors must be approved by the commissioner, with the exception of those schools accredited by the New England Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. Title 20-A, §§ 2901, 13003. A principals certificate is required for any chief administrator employed by a nonpublic school. Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. Title 20-A, §13019-B.

The curriculum for nonpublic schools must be approved by the commissioner and must include minimum performance standards and time requirements. It must include instruction in reading, writing, spelling, grammar, library instruction, math, science, art, drama, American and local history as well as social studies. A drug and alcohol awareness program must also be implemented. Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. Title 20-A, §§2902.3, 4706, 4711.

Evidence of immunization or paperwork showing legal exemption is required for all new students. Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. Title 20-A, §6353.3, 4, 6. Students in nonpublic schools are entitled to the same health benefits as those attending public schools. This includes physician, nursing, dental and optometric services. Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. Title 30-A, §5724.7.

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