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In Focus: The Phoenix Academy of Austin


Students and a counselor at
the Academy

When the Phoenix Academy of Austin first opened its doors in the summer of 1997, there were just eight teenage boys enrolled in the residential treatment program, located in a small, single frame house in East Austin. Within a year that number doubled, and it soon became clear that more space was needed to accommodate the growing population. The Academy was relocated to Live Oak Street in a residential suburb of Austin, and Phoenix House began constructing a college-like campus on the new grounds. Today, there are boys’ and girls’ dormitories, classrooms, sports facilities, a basketball court, and office buildings spread out across the spacious property, surrounded by large oak trees. Some 50 teens are enrolled at the Academy, where they will stay for between four and 12 months, depending on their needs.

Students at the Phoenix Academy of Austin live in a highly structured environment, where they learn to look out for one another, take responsibility for their actions, and participate in community life. The Academy is a fully accredited public high school, so teens have the chance to catch up on valuable classroom time, and are encouraged regain the confidence and drive to complete their schooling.

Extra-curricular activities include trips to the theatre, concerts, picnics, holiday parties and sporting events. Students are also active in the local community, participating in neighborhood clean-up drives, and organizing events with nearby Boys and Girls clubs. Visiting days are also an important part of Academy life, giving families the chance to see the progress their teens are making in treatment. There is an active family program, and many committed parents continue to participate even after their kids have graduated from the Academy.

“The Phoenix Academy of Austin set a benchmark in Central Texas for treatment for teens,” said Mike Hathcoat, director of Phoenix House in Texas. “With the help of our dedicated staff and supporters, troubled teens are getting their lives back on track, and returning to their home communities healthy, motivated and drug-free.”

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