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boarding schools for troubled teens In Wisconsin
Some of the warning signs for at-risk teens include reckless behavior, defiance, alcohol and drug use, violence or threats of violence and depression. When teenagers can’t seem to correct these problems on their own and parents don’t know what else to do, HelpYourTeenNow can provide answers. Alternative and therapeutic boarding schools are designed to correct behavioral issues and strengthen academic achievements for struggling learners and many parents are turning to this kind of residential solutions. At HelpYourTeenNow, a parent advocacy group, we’ll provide you with a free consultation on your specific family situation and our best recommendations for schools in your area.
Do Schools for Troubled Teens in Wisconsin Work?
Schools for troubled teens in Wisconsin often combine therapeutic care with structured academics and outdoor activities, leveraging the state’s natural environment to support healing and growth. Many programs focus on individualized treatment plans that address emotional and behavioral challenges in a safe, nurturing setting. While success varies depending on the teen’s specific needs and the program chosen, these schools have helped many families see meaningful progress. To learn more about how these schools operate, check out our detailed guide on boarding schools for troubled teens.
When Should You Consider a School for Troubled Teens in Wisconsin?
If your teen is facing ongoing struggles such as behavioral issues, emotional distress, or difficulty succeeding in traditional school settings in Wisconsin, it might be time to explore therapeutic boarding schools. These programs provide a comprehensive approach, often away from negative influences, helping teens develop healthier coping skills and build resilience. Families typically consider these schools when local resources or outpatient treatments haven’t been enough. For expert advice tailored to your situation, feel free to contact Help Your Teen Now. Our services are completely free and designed to help you find the right support.
Wisconsin Regulatory Laws
The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families is responsible for licensing residential programs such as residential care centers for youth, group homes and shelters. The DCF receives its authority under Wisconsin Administrative Code DCF 52.
Wisconsin private schools are not required to become accredited and approval is optional. (Wis. Stats. §118.165(2). The teachers at these schools do not need licensing or certification. For schools participating in the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program, only a high school degree is required (Wis. Stats. §119.23(2)(a)6. The curriculums are not outlined by any state agency, but must provide a progressive plan of instruction (Wis. Stats. §118.165(d). Testing to measure student performance is also not required (Wis. Stats. §119.23(7)e.
Reference: http://www2.ed.gov/admins/comm/choice/regprivschl/regprivschl.pdf
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Educational Recources
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Wisconsin Regulatory Laws
The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families is responsible for licensing residential programs such as residential care centers for youth, group homes and shelters. The DCF receives its authority under Wisconsin Administrative Code DCF 52.
Wisconsin private schools are not required to become accredited and approval is optional. (Wis. Stats. §118.165(2). The teachers at these schools do not need licensing or certification. For schools participating in the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program, only a high school degree is required (Wis. Stats. §119.23(2)(a)6. The curriculums are not outlined by any state agency, but must provide a progressive plan of instruction (Wis. Stats. §118.165(d). Testing to measure student performance is also not required (Wis. Stats. §119.23(7)e.
Reference: http://www2.ed.gov/admins/comm/choice/regprivschl/regprivschl.pdf
Educational Recources
Statistics for At-Risk Wisconsin Teens
ADD/ADHD
- 8.3%
8.3 percent of children in Wisconsin, aged 3–17 years have been diagnosed with ADHD. (National Survey of Children’s Health, 2016–2019).
TEEN PREGNANCY
- 11.5%
The teen pregnancy rate for adolescents aged 15 to 19 in Wisconsin 11.5 per 1,000 females in this age group, according to the World Population Review.
https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/teen-pregnancy-rates-by-state
TEEN SUICIDE
- 10.6%
Wisconsin ranks 16th with a suicide rate of 10.6 deaths per 100,000 adolescents aged 15 to 19, according to data from the CDC WONDER Multiple Cause of Death Files (2020–2022).
https://www.americashealthrankings.org/explore/measures/teen_suicide/WI
DRUG USE
- 8.33%
In 2020, approximately 788,000 teenagers aged 12 to 17 nationwide met the criteria for Illicit Drug Use Disorder (IDUD). In Wisconsin, about 8.33% of adolescents in this age group reported using illicit drugs, according to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics.
ALCOHOL USE
- 11.04%
Approximately 11.04% of teens in Wisconsin suffer from Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). (National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, 2020).
TEEN VAPING
- 20.6%
Wisconsin ranks 33rd among all states, with 20.6% of high school teens reported to have used vapes. (Drug Watch, 2024).
TEEN PORNOGRAPHY
- 57%
The porn industry experienced a 12.6% annual revenue increase from 2018 to 2023. Adolescent exposure to pornography has steadily risen, with the age of first exposure becoming increasingly younger. 57% of young adults ages 18-25 use porn monthly or more often.
TEEN BULLYING
- 46%
According to Pew Research Center, 46% of U.S. teens aged 13 to 17 have experienced at least one of six types of cyberbullying behaviors. (Pew Research Center, 2022).
https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2022/12/15/teens-and-cyberbullying-2022/
Summary
We Can Help!
Sometimes it’s best to remove your teen from your home and put him or her in the supportive care of a therapeutic boarding school. Professionals who excel at working with at-risk teens will break through the emotional walls that at-risk teens build, and help them see that a more productive and positive lifestyle will benefit them greatly. At HelpYourTeenNow, we’ll guide you toward programs that have excellent reviews, a track record of success and plenty of testimonials from grateful teens and parents. Not all residential treatment facilities are equal, so call HelpYourTeenNow to access our vast resources about which schools are the best option for you and your teen.