Grove School Viewbook

G SSince 1934

The Grove School 175 Copse Road | Madison, Connecticut 06443 | (203) 245-2778

Main Office Fax: (203) 245-6098Main Office (General Inquires): [email protected] and Referrals: [email protected]

a foundationof Hope

G SSince 1934

hopeGrove School features a strong college preparatory academic program and life-changing clinical services. We’re a co-educational, therapeutic boarding school for adolescents in grades 7-12.

Since 1934, thousands of intelligent teenagers who struggle with social, emotional, or psychological challenges have come to Grove School. They’ve vastly improved their academics, built healthy relationships, and gained the personal skills to rejuvenate their lives.

Grove students learn to understand and appreciate themselves and make a personal connection with teachers, therapists, advisors, coaches, staff, and fellow students. They grow in confidence and capability. They learn how to function well in a connected, healing community and a loving family. Making that happen requires Grove’s holistic approach— using every situation, every moment—to teach and guide. At Grove School, everything’s important. Academic life, clinical services, residential life, and activities are all equally important for living a full, peaceful, and rich life.

here, teens discover hope and the opportunity to thrive.

2 | www.groveschool.org

“ Kaela really listens to what students have to say. You don’t find that in teachers at a lot of schools. She lets me read ahead in the books we’re studying and study more independently. I like that because it’s easier for me to understand and learn that way. In her class I’m enjoying the work so much that I’m surprised how quickly class is over. And she’s not just interested in our English class. She’s interested in how I’m doing in my other classes. She cares about my whole educational career. She may be the best teacher here.”

“ Halle inspires me. One time her class had to assign songs to portions of Romeo and Juliet and explain why their choices fit Shakespeare’s play. The songs Halle picked and the rationale she had were brilliant… so appropriate, and creative. She sees literature with the depth and insight of a mature adult. She’s smart enough and mature enough to understand the setting in a book like To Kill a Mockingbird. On a personal level, Halle nearly always comes to class with a smile and an eagerness that’s infectious. And Halle advocates for herself. She’ll suggest how she can best accomplish a goal and explain why her approach will allow her to be more successful.”

Kaela speaks about Halle

Halle speaks about Kaela

academics

Halle

Kaela

~ Kaela, Grove English Teacher since 2011 Master’s Degree in Special Education

favorite Grove Activity: Summer Fun Fest

~ Halle, Grove Freshman from New York City

favorite Activity: Painting pottery at “All Fired Up”


curriculum Adapted to each StudentAn academic team develops and implements a comprehensive individualized learning plan for each student. The Grove School faculty uses research-proven instructional methods and curriculum centered on a keen assessment of the student’s portfolio. Our Educateur Model of teaching places teachers in non-teaching roles (as advisors, coaches, residential staff, and more). This model builds stronger teacher/student relationships that give insights into the student’s learning methods, emotional needs, and character. The Educateur Model also maximizes out-of-class instructional opportunities.

reaching Potential We combine high expectations, small class sizes (2-10), individualized learning, and a highly trained teaching staff to make the most out of every student’s potential. We also extend the school day and the school year to intensify learning and speed academic progress. During a 12-month academic year with four two-week vacations, students enjoy a true high school experience with competitive sports teams, the National Honor Society, Student Council, a full activities schedule, and many Advanced Placement courses.

Setting the Bar highOur dedicated teachers both challenge and support students. Grove School students make dramatic progress with demanding course work. All core courses align with Connecticut Common Core State Standards. We’re accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and fully approved by the Connecticut State Department of Education. We work closely with school districts from all over the country to assure students meet their own local school requirements.

academics

education for the college BoundThe college preparatory curriculum for grades 7-12 enables Grove School students to frequently gain acceptance to their first choice college or university. Many of them earn college credits at Grove by taking Advanced Placement courses. More than 90% of our students apply and are accepted to college.


learning in overdriveThe Grove School’s many advanced learning resources and policies help students make academic gains. An academic case manager reviews each student’s progress to help maintain a high achievement level. The manager also works closely with content teachers to make certain curriculum is presented in a format and style proven to increase learning and motivation for the individual student. Fifty-five minute classes Monday-Friday allow for more discussion and deeper learning. Study hall five nights a week gives students a concentrated 90 minutes to do homework or work individually with their dorm staff, a teacher, or student tutor. Highly motivated students often win approval for independent study programs in academic areas of special interest to them.

Trimester System for More Individualized learningGrove students can take more electives, recover faster if they’re behind in credits, and devote more time to the courses they excel in or require extra help in because of the trimester system. Most students will have six electives per year. Students can earn nine course credits per year toward the 22 required for graduation. The trimester system also means a student who struggles in Math, English, or any other subject can gain about 35 percent more instructional time. And most students need to take only three core courses per trimester, giving them more opportunities to explore their strongest academic interests. Students are challenged without being overwhelmed. The academic curriculum and schedule allow greater adjustments for each student’s specific needs.

academics

Wide range of coursesArt Fundamentals, Painting, Voice, Sculpture,

Fashion Design, Drama, Craftwork, Screenwriting, Film Studies

Career & Technology Computer Applications, Child Development,Careers in Theater and Film, Food Science,

Kennel ManagementEnglish World Literature, American Literature,

British Literature, AP English, Creative Writing, Poetry

Health & Recreation Physical Education, Dance, Strength TrainingMath Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, Geometry,

Business Mathematics, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, AP Calculus, Accounting

Science Environmental Science, Life Science,

Biology, Chemistry, Marine Biology, AP Biology, Physics, Astronomy, Anatomy and Physiology

Social Studies Geography, Colonial America, World History,

Philosophy, Current Social Issues, Modern America, Civics/Economics, Psychology, Sociology, AP US History

SpanishI, II, III, IV

“ Brian’s incredibly courageous. In therapy, he keeps his heart open to whatever may come back at him no matter how difficult it may be to hear. He’s willing to go through pain to get better. Working with someone as motivated as Brian makes you feel brilliant. He goes above and beyond to work on his issues. Brian’s created a great support system for himself at Grove. When he leaves he’ll be able to replicate that and surround himself with people who will be good for him.”

“ When I arrived here I was in shock. I thought, ‘This can’t be real.’ People here are straight-forward and try to always be supportive. After just about every therapy session with Andy, I feel like I just ran a mile, but I come out relaxed. Andy’s therapy gets rid of my tension. He gives me answers. With answers to things I’m concerned about, I can relax somewhat because I’m not struggling with the question in my head all the time. I want a good future. Andy and Grove are helping me get there.”

Andy speaks about Brian

Brian speaks about Andy

Clinical Services

Brian Andy


~ Brian, Grove Junior from Westport, CT

Best Grove Memory: Dog sledding in Lake Placid on my first ASTEE© trip

~ Andy, Full Time Clinician since 1991 Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

favorite Grove Memory: Starting the Grove School ice hockey team


Therapy Always AvailableWith 16 clinicians, including 5 psychiatrists, Grove School offers robust therapeutic and clinical services. Every week students have two individual therapy sessions and one group session for 6-10 students. Whenever issues arise—at meals, during activities, anytime—students have access to support. Grove School teachers, staff, and counselors meet continually to share insights and build a complete picture of each student and their needs. Our primary emphasis is on contextually-based psycho-dynamic psychotherapy with a focus on interpersonal relationships. We practice Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a therapy designed to help people change their ineffective behavior patterns. We also offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

Smart Teens overcoming StrugglesMany Grove School students have felt they didn’t fit in at school, at home, or in social situations. They often have diagnoses like mood disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, Attention-Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADD/ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Tourette’s Syndrome, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), eating disorders, Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NLD or NVLD)/Asperger’s Syndrome, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), learning disabilities, or borderline personality traits. While life’s been tough for these teens, with the right encouragement, education, therapy, and relationships they make steady progress. Typically, students return home or transition to college, fully prepared for school and personal success within two years.

clinical services


A World of SupportGrove School teachers work daily with students outside of class. The counselor or teacher is often the person waking the student up, sharing a meal, coaching a sport, or running an activity. Through this Educateur Model of continual staff/student interaction, students build trust, gain perspective, and grow healthier.

School as an extended FamilyThe close-knit atmosphere at Grove School helps students develop the skills to function as a contributing part of a healthy family. Being with students from tooth brushing to class; from therapy to lights out, our staff breaks down communication barriers. In this family-like setting, students dare to get close, reveal themselves, and work on their most pressing issues. Behavior improves. Relationships deepen. Responsibility increases. Grove School students learn who they are and how they can best develop their talents and work with others.

Parental commitmentFor any teen to succeed, the teen’s parents and the Grove School staff must develop a therapeutic alliance. To build and maintain open communication, each teen’s advisor is in email and/or phone communication every week with parents. We hold six Parent Workshops each year to further build bridges. Each parent attends at least three of these day-long workshops. Parents also visit campus once a month for family therapy. For families who live far from campus, we offer phone or Skype sessions.

clinical services

Day in the Life

The full schedule, challenging academics, fun activities, and a variety of exciting choices keep students focused and engaged in what’s most vital for their health and development.

7:00 am

WAke UP, GeT UP, cleAn UPYou and your dorm mates prepare for the day together, motivating each other and sharing chores.

8:00 am

BreAkFASTFresh, whole foods give your day a healthy start and provide energy for the tasks ahead.

8:35 am

FIrST clASSThis could be an AP English or AP Calculus class—tough work, but students enjoy the challenge and do well partly due to small classes.

9:35 am

Second clASSYou may have a Science class covering rocket aerodynamics, mummification, or levitating magnets. Grove teachers make it easy for you to ask questions and get involved.

10:35 am

ThIrd clASSThe trimester system means most students have six electives each year. You might want to choose Painting, Drama, Fashion Design, or Computer Applications.

11:30 am

lUnchHealthy meals and community provide you with time to relax, get reenergized, and talk with friends. Teachers, staff, and students eat together to further build relationships.

12:15 pm

FoUrTh clASSPerhaps this is another elective like Voice, Dance, Creative Writing, or Strength Training. With 80+ courses, you have lots of options to explore.

1:15 pm

FIFTh clASSWe offer Spanish I-IV at Grove. That may prove important since experts predict that in the not to distant future the U.S. will have more Spanish-speaking people than any other country.

2:10 pm

lAST clASS or TherAPyTwo weekly individual therapy sessions give you time to voice your private concerns and examine whatever may be on your mind. Grove’s 16 clinicians listen well and provide daily living insights.

3:00 pm

AcTIvITy PerIodChoose from 25 exciting activities from robotics to running; competitive sports to chess.

5:00 pm

dInnerEnjoy a family style dinner with fellow students and staff. It’s a great time to catch up with your friends, ask a teacher a lingering question, or share stories of the day.

5:45 pm

Second AcTIvITy PerIodTime to try things you never dreamed of doing. Become a stage actor. Learn sailing. Relax with yoga. Enlarge your world and focus on fun both on and off campus.

7:30 pm

STUdy hAllCatch up on your homework, get or give academic help to another student, or work one on one with a teacher.

9:00 pm

cASUAl dorM TIMeUnwind. Envelop yourself with music. Get to know a dorm mate. Play trivia with that Spanish teacher who’s also your dorm staff. It’s your time.

“ The dorm is a safe place where Alisia and I can just be ourselves. We have everyday laughs and lift each other up. And she’s fantastic enough and capable enough to motivate me to push myself harder. We’re both positive people most of the time (though I have my days). I wouldn’t say we’re each other’s rock, although Alisia does rock. There’s no one person at Grove who is my rock. There are a lot of great little pebbles.”

“ Dorm life’s great. Olivia and I will moan and groan about not wanting to do some assignment but then we pull it together and get it done. She’s already taken Physics and Pre-Calculus, two of my classes now, so sometimes she can help me with the class work. And she’s president of Student Council. I’m president of the National Honor Society. We both really support each other in our leadership roles…Olivia’s awesome. She’s inspired me to be a better person. I couldn’t ask for a better roommate!”

Olivia speaks about Alisia

Alisia speaks about Olivia

Residential Life

Olivia

Alisia


~ Alisia, Grove Senior from Discovery Bay, Hong Kong Colgate College bound

favorite Grove Tradition: Fall Carnival

~ olivia, Grove Senior from Avon, Connecticut Roger Williams University bound

favorite Grove Activity: Student Council


reassuring Structure, Predictability, and SafetyResidential life is an important part of treatment. Students learn to feel comfortable and safe in their living space. Many find that negotiating challenges in the dorm is at the core of their work. They learn to use personal and school resources well and develop a strong work ethic, among other life skills. The dorm staff works collaboratively with a dorm administrator, advisors, teachers, and clinicians to create the most effective therapeutic and learning environment.

renewing Their energyIn their own space in the dorm teens can be teens. Fun and relaxation help them renew their energy and add balance to their work. They can think about their day, work on their individual issues, and learn how to fit into a larger community. They also gain responsibility by organizing and cleaning their rooms. Students live in small cottages and dormitories of 6-10 students. Each dorm has two teacher/counselors who provide constant supervision. For added safety and security, we have a team of overnight staff who supervise the campus while most others sleep.

residential life


learning IndependenceResidential life helps students gradually and safely become independent of direct supervision. Better decision-making and greater maturity result in teens earning more responsibility and freedom. Eventually, students may earn the privilege of going downtown by themselves or participating in off-campus employment. It’s a system that provides teens with a unique ability to greatly expand their opportunities.

The Transition ProgramHigh school graduates looking for a little more guidance and structure before living on their own can choose the Transition Program. These post-graduate students live in a home close to campus and staffed by experienced counselors. Many post-grads work or enroll in local colleges while they learn living skills, continue therapy, or develop greater social skills. In this unique setting they practice and master skills essential for success in higher education and careers under the guidance of a Grove School professional.

residential life

“ In less than three years, Ryan’s gone from being a little boy to being a young man. He’s found the courage to face his family issues, adoption issues, and more. He’s got a great personality and is a phenomenal athlete. He’ll probably play a sport in college. A year ago Ryan was difficult to manage on an ASTEE© trip to Arizona and Mexico. He just went on another ASTEE© wilderness trip to Vermont and was a leader. He helped the kids who were having difficulties and was

extremely dependable.”

Alex speaks about Ryan

“ I connected right away with Alex. I could talk to him. He knows where I’ve come from and has gone through a lot of the same things I have. He’s helped me work on family relationships and being honest. Being honest is huge for me. Then there’s the activities. On this Vermont trip that Alex just led, we did so many things I’d never done before—whitewater rafting, rock climbing, rappelling. Activities like that also let me get to know kids I wouldn’t appreciate otherwise. And I watch the way Alex handles situations and try to follow his example. He gives me positive reinforcement and feedback. And we laugh together.”

Ryan speaks about Alex

Activities

AlexRyan


~ Ryan, Grove Junior from Lake Forest, Illinois Star in Varsity Soccer, Baseball, and Basketball

favorite Grove Memory: Our first soccer victory over Block Island High School in ten years

~ Alex, Masters in Recreational Therapy and Masters in Social Work, Former Grove Student

favorite place on Campus: the High Ropes Course


discovering new InterestsRecreation, trips, and activities provide personal benefits far beyond relaxation and a break in routine. They help teens gain confidence, learn new skills, build social relationships, sharpen coping skills, and learn to work with others. Students gain enrichment and learn lessons they’ll use for a lifetime. Every Grove school day features two activity periods. Among the activities are driving range, backwoods exploring, snorkeling, Student Council, National Honor Society, drama or musical rehearsal, horseback riding, fitness club workout, sailing, adventure course, and group therapy.

celebrating the ArtsThe Fine and Performing Arts are essential to our academic curriculum and activity time. After school, students use the Art Room and Art Studio to further explore their artistic talents. Some take arts and crafts instruction off-campus at a local art school. Grove School also features a music studio equipped for a small band or soloist. Students take private instruction on campus in guitar, piano, drums, and voice. The Grove School Drama Program provides a wide range of acting, set design, lighting, prop construction, costuming, and other related experiences. Recent theatrical productions include: Fiddler on the Roof, The Music Man, and Oklahoma. The campus with its modern outdoor sculptures adds creative exclamation points.

Athletic competitionGrove competes with other schools on the varsity and junior varsity level in co-ed soccer, basketball, softball, and baseball. We emphasize participation and the benefits of healthy physical activity. Our coaches welcome every student, regardless of experience or ability. Students also participate in many individual sports including tennis, horseback riding, golf, and yoga.

activities


clubs for All InterestsGrove School clubs evolve based on student and staff interests. On campus clubs include gardening, cycling, outdoor skills, Zumba, Prime Climb, Body Combat, running, and book club. Off campus activities include martial arts, snow skiing and snowboarding, sailing, swimming, water-skiing, mountain climbing, kayaking, and camping.

ASTee©: high Adventure & International TripsFor 20+ years Grove’s ASTEE© (Alternative Site Therapeutic Education Experience) program has featured trips that help teens face new challenges, learn new skills, and experience new worlds. Recent trips include a soccer trip to England; skiing in Lake Placid, New York; rock-climbing and rappelling in Vermont’s mountains; and community service in El Salvador and Arizona.

Fun & rewarding ActivitiesThe possibilities are extensive. Ride the zip line for a thrill; star in the school musical; or spent a week exploring and sailing the Caribbean. Many students enjoy earning a paycheck from on-campus jobs.

The calendar features dances, concerts, speakers, formal dinners, and more. A major initiation into Grove-style relationship building called Convocation opens the year. It’s a celebration of the great academic, athletic, social, and fun activities that Grove offers. While Convocation serves as the unofficial beginning of the school year, graduation serves as the official end. It’s a formal ceremony filled with accolades and awards for the seniors. Each senior chooses a staff member to introduce them. The senior then hears that staff member’s warm memories of the student’s journey at Grove School.

activities

“ Our bonding experience was almost going to the gym. He canceled on me, I had to cancel on him another time, but we got closer just talking about it. We finally did it this year. Richard doesn’t beat around the bush. He tells you exactly how it is. I like that because I’m straight to the point, too. He helps me work on my self-discipline. And when I get angry or upset, Richard has a way of talking me to calmness. He listens first with the intent to understand. I know he has compassion for me and the other students. I think of him as my friend.”

Max speaks about Richard

“ Max is a bright guy, great smile, and very likeable. He’s in my weekly group therapy. Trust doesn’t come easily to Max for lots of reasons. He’s like a lot of our kids—a really good kid—but he’s had some bumpy spots in life. The goal with Max and every kid at Grove is to learn how to successfully deal with people. Max has the ability to hear what others are saying, think about it, and then acknowledge by his behavior and words when he’s learned something valuable. He’s changing for the better.”

Richard speaks about Max

The Holistic Approach


~ Richard, Grove CEO and Co-owner Has worked with children and adolescents since age 19

favorite Grove Memory: Schooner trips in the Caribbean

~ Max, Grove Senior from Bangladesh

favorite Campus Activity: Hanging out with friends in the Grove

RichardMax


everything’s ImportantThe Grove School holistic approach and our Educateur Model of teaching recognize the importance of the entire day and the entire community. Our teens progress in surprising ways at unpredictable times. Academic insights sometimes surface during a dorm discussion. Therapeutic breakthroughs can occur during a game or activity. Thoughts and feelings revealed in therapy can break barriers to classroom learning. The catalyst for these breakthroughs may be anyone in the community. This holistic approach makes relationships grow stronger and deeper. It boosts self-understanding, improves family connections, and brings lifelong personal improvements.

Grove School Graduates Attend collegeArt Institute of ChicagoBabsonBentleyClarkColgateDrexelIthacaHofstraNortheasternPaceRoger WilliamsRutgersSyracuseSUNYUConnUniversity of MarylandVillanova

The Holistic Approach

Dear Parent,

We’ve seen hundreds of Grove students gain new hope for a fulfilling life. Here at Grove young people: • Grow a love for learning• Advance beyond self-imposed limitations• Learn to speak and act with confidence,

honesty, and care• Work hard in class, play hard in activities,

laugh hard in dorms, get past hard in therapy• Nurture healthy family relationships• Become both self-reliant and community-minded• Explore new interests and passions • Celebrate life’s joys

We’re passionate about helping teenagers succeed not only in school, but in life. Families and teens have thrived through our holistic approach, strong academics, extensive clinical services, and our dedication to building positive, life-affirming relationships. At Grove School teens learn and achieve at their own pace within a structured framework. The combination of high standards and earned privileges allows teens to gain stability, confidence, and contentment.

Come & Visit We’re passionate about helping teenagers succeed not only in school, but in life...


We’re also one of the oldest, private, independent family-owned therapeutic programs in the United States. I’ve been here since 1986. My son, Peter, formally joined the staff in 1996. Grove School has grown tremendously since our founding more than 80 years ago.

Please come for a visit. On campus you’ll feel the excitement of a caring, positive, relationship-building therapeutic high school. Let us know when you’re coming. We’d be delighted to meet you.

Sincerely,

Richard L. Chorney Peter J. ChorneyPresident and CEO Executive Director

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Grove School Viewbook

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