Drug and alcohol use among school age youth is a significant problem — both in Michigan and nationally. Recent data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse shows that approximately 6% of 8th graders, 10% of 10th graders, and 14% of 12th graders, regularly use illicit substances. These numbers continue to grow, particularly in Michigan, where the state was recently identified as having the second highest rate of drug abuse in the country (Wallethub, 2019).

Recovery for these kids is often unsuccessful when they return to their schools of origin and are surrounded by the same peers — and the same opportunities to use. When faced with this issue, many families may select online high school as an option. However, that’s a simple answer for a complicated problem. The teens never develop strong coping skills because they are isolated from their peers. That’s why they need to be with peers who understand what it means to be a teenager in recovery.

Wellspring Academy is a tuition-free public charter school supported by Michigan International Prep School Through this partnership, Wellspring Academy will provide all recovery services and oversee day-to-day academic offerings. MIPS will provide curriculum, educational quality oversight, information systems and training.