As a residential therapeutic school prioritizing student health, safety, and well-being, situated in a tranquil location to improve the healing process, Alpine Academy Utah reviews the ASPIRE (Alpine Student Preparation for Independence, Responsibility, and Education) model to ensure soon-to-be-graduates have the power to succeed.
Those in the ASPIRE program have the same level of supervision, skill-building focus as outlined therapeutic treatment plan goals, and involvement with school activities and on-campus experiences. But ASPIRE is slightly different— students reside in a residential model that better prepares them for the outside world.
A Brief Background on the Experience
Alpine Academy opened the ASPIRE home around eight years ago in 2015. Named after the acclaimed program, it’s connected to the rear of the Mountain Birch house, sporting a driveway connection to Erda Way.
The house is designed in a way that helps with the development and growth of independence as students navigate the largely self-directed program.
It’s essentially the perfect place for pupils to thrive and prepare themselves for their next steps.
Everything the Program Has to Offer
The goal of ASPIRE is to ensure near-graduates are ready for everything that college life throws at them. So, it replicates living situations similar to higher education institutions, providing real-world situations like:
- Weekly life skills group
- A far-reaching independent living curriculum
- Discharge and initial life skills assessment
- Education and career counseling
- An enhanced focus on leadership, problem-solving skills, and interpersonal relationship
- Self-directed, youth-driven daily schedule
- Community resource education (provided it’s available at the time)
- Living space that replicates dormitory-style living
Who Can Access the ASPIRE Experience
As of August 25, 2023, Alpine Academy has just ten spaces available in the ASPIRE experience.
Generally speaking, students will transition into the ASPIRE program after they have made substantial progress in a traditional Alpine Academy home. As many would rightly expect, the entire team and parents are involved in the decision to transfer them to this setting.
There is a therapeutic benefit of this treatment approach. Thus, it tends to be a good idea for students to transfer when they’re ready. The positive outcome on college life (and beyond) can be astounding.
Ensuring ASPIRE’s Benefits Last a Lifetime Through Aftercare
Once students and their families walk onto the campus, they become part of the Alpine Family. Thus, the students receive excellent aftercare, serving them once they’ve passed through the ASPIRE program.
Upon leaving, the student’s dedicated Aftercare Coordinator constructs a check-in schedule with the family, depending on the needs of the individual. But the professionals are also available 24/7 for support and consultation if they hit stumbling blocks along the way.
From the ASPIRE program to the eight weekly calls to the 180-day check-in to remaining on-call indefinitely after 12 months, it’s not surprising that Alpine Academy are the leaders in the space.
Conclusion
The ASPIRE program stands as a testament to unwavering commitment of the holistic development and success of students. With a focus on fostering independence, real-world readiness, and a seamless transition to higher education or independent living, ASPIRE offers a unique and transformative experience.
The program not only prepares students academically but also nurtures their personal growth, leadership skills, and problem-solving abilities. The journey doesn’t conclude upon graduation; the provision of comprehensive aftercare reflects the institution’s dedication to lifelong success for every individual who passes through its doors.
