How we work.

A three-part
model.

We’ve structured Archway Academy via three important partnerships with three distinct but closely integrated functions:

• The Archway nonprofit, our recovery staff 
and support
• Southwest Schools, our educational faculty
 and curriculum
• Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church, the downtown/Medical Center space
 where our campus resides

When students come to Archway, they technically enroll in two programs: Southwest Schools’ academic program, and the Archway Academy recovery program. Students’ transcripts and diplomas read Southwest Schools.

Frequently
Asked
Questions

• What’s a “Recovery High School”?

  As defined by the national Association of Recovery Schools (ARS), of which Archway Academy is a member, a Recovery High School must “meet state requirements for awarding a secondary school diploma” and be “designed specifically for students recovering from substance use.” This includes requiring that all enrolled students be in recovery and working a program of recovery approved by the school.

  Recovery Schools are also prepared through policies, protocols and the hiring of qualified personnel to address the needs of students in crisis, therapeutic or other. To learn more about ARS, Recovery High Schools, and colleges that offer academic or sober living programs designed specifically for students recovering from substance use disorders, click here.

• What’s the difference between Archway and Passageway? What’s the criteria for eligibility?

  Archway Academy offers two unique programs on campus. The Passageway program is for students new to our community who have fewer than 60 days of sobriety and/or who are coming to us from a residential treatment setting. Passageway students receive additional designated recovery support, more frequent drug testing, and are under more stringent observation.

  The traditional Archway program is for students with more than 60 days of sobriety and a full referral from an Alternative Peer Group. Archway students are allowed more freedom and privileges due to their sustained recovery. For detailed Admissions criteria, please click here.

• Is Archway a Christian school?

  No, but our classrooms exist inside of generously shared space at Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church. While Archway is not affiliated with any religious organization, we are spiritual in nature, following the 12-step recovery model.

• Does Archway enroll students who have dual diagnoses?

  Yes. Please visit our Admissions page to complete our detailed enrollment and student history forms, or contact us if you’d like to discuss more in-depth.

• What if I find out about Archway after the semester has begun?

  We’re proud to offer a “rolling admissions” policy, which allows for a student to be admitted at any time during the semester when feasible. For students who are behind, Archway’s curriculum provides flexibility for self-paced learning. Motivated students can catch up and gain the credits they need to get back on track.

• Does Archway Academy have a summer school program?

  Yes. Archway provides a credit recovery summer school program for students with academic need. The program operates over four weeks, split into two-week sessions. Archway’s academic advisor determines which students are in need of credit recovery summer school and makes a recommendation to families as needed.

• What’s the grading schedule?

  Our school year is divided into six 6-week grading periods, or three per semester. The six-week report cards are disseminated via email. Halfway through each grading period (three weeks), a progress report is sent home with the student. Parents and guardians are welcome to email the teachers directly at any time throughout the year, if they have questions or concerns about their student’s progress.