About Therapeutic Boarding Schools in Alabama

Boarding Schools in Alabama

Non-religious, therapeutic boarding schools in Alabama are subject to strict licensing and regulations. For instance, instruction can only be given by teaching professionals holding certificates issued by the State Superintendent and the course work is to reflect the educational branches taught in the public school curriculum. The course objectives are to be made clearly available in the catalog, bulletin or brochure of the institution and a register of attendance is kept, recording the absence of each child for a half day or more. A physical education program that meets the standards of the Alabama Department of Education must be also be implemented.

The Alabama Department of Human Resources oversees the minimum standards for facilities housing minors up to 18 years of age. This includes ensuring that the building codes are up to date and that regular fire drills are implemented and all exits are unlocked during school hours. Instructors and volunteers must pass a sex criminal background check in order to be given supervisory and disciplinary power over minors less than 18 years of age. Additionally, the unlawful sale of controlled substances on campus, or within a three mile radius carries a penalty of five years incarceration, with no probation.

Private facilities are allowed the same health and welfare facilities that are available to public schools. This includes dental and physician services, dental hygienist, school psychologist, nurse, social worker and speech therapist. 

Reference: http://www2.ed.gov