School administrators in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth and Suffolk are considering opening a regional recovery school for students recovering from substance abuse. The school could open next year.
The school would provide students with a “safe and supportive” environment to learn as they continue their recovery before returning to a traditional high school. Students at the school would also have access to counseling and other resources.
According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, opioid overdose deaths among 15- to 24-year-olds have increased 500% since 1999. In Virginia, nearly 7% of teens report drug use and 9% report alcohol use.
The school would serve no more than 30 students at a time. The Virginia Beach school division would control the funding. The idea originated two years ago in Virginia Beach and was championed by board member Carolyn Weems, who lost her daughter to an overdose more than a decade ago. The school board last week approved a resolution renewing its commitment to exploring the concept. The other divisions have also recently approved similar resolutions or are expected to vote on similar resolutions this summer.
Participating departments would form a steering committee to explore a program structure, identify a location, determine costs, and seek partnerships with mental health organizations. The committee would also explore transportation options. Plans would be presented to each school board in the winter for another vote. If the boards approve the plans, the school would open for the 2025-2026 school year.
The General Assembly has appropriated $750,000 for the project.
Nour Habib, nour.habib@virginiamedia.com
