FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my child have homework?
Nightly homework is not regularly assigned in any River Rock programs. All students are given ample opportunity to complete all assigned work during class time. On occasion, however, homework may be assigned as part of a transition period back to the public school setting.
Will my child earn a high school diploma?
All high school students enrolled in River Rock programs are still students of their home school district. All grades and credits earned while enrolled in any River Rock Academy program will transfer to the home school district. This ensures that high school students can remain on-track to graduate despite any time spent out of the public school setting. Students also have the opportunity, with school district approval, to recover credits. Seniors graduating from River Rock Academy will receive a certificate of graduation from River Rock Academy and a high school diploma from their home school district.
How can my child attend River Rock Academy?
All River Rock Academy students are referred through their home school districts.
Does my child need to bring notebooks, pencils and supplies?
Students enrolled in any of the River Rock programs do not need to bring these items. All students will be provided with the necessary supplies.
Will my child receive counseling?
Counseling services including individual, group and behavioral counseling are provided to students in all River Rock programs. Intensive psychological counseling will not be provided and recommendations will be reviewed with the student, family and school district. River Rock Academy students participate in a therapeutic classroom setting daily.
What type of academic course will my child receive?
Students will be completing their core academic subjects through both teacher-instructed and self-paced curriculum. A component of River Rock programs for secondary students is individualized computer-aided instruction. This enables staff to challenge students on all academic levels. Students also participate in a therapeutic social skills/life skills curriculum.
Does River Rock Academy provide transportation for my child?
Your child is provided with door to door van transportation. The transportation company responsible for your particular school district will contact you directly the day before your child is scheduled to start school at River Rock Academy. Many times it may take up to three school days for the transportation company to arrange transportation. If that is the case, parents may transport their child to and from River Rock if at all possible.
I need to take my child out of school early for an appointment. What do I need to do?
Please send your child to school with a note from you stating the approximate time you’ll be here to pick him/her up and why. You will need to come into the building to get your child and he/she will need to be signed out in the office. If you should forget to send in a note, please call the office to inform us of the situation. If applicable, Day Treatment students must also consult their referral agency (Juvenile Probation or Children and Youth Services) for approval.
Where can I get additional information on River Rock Academy?
For more information, please call (717) 208-3349.
Where can I get additional information about Alternative Education for Disruptive Youth or Private License Academic programs?
For more information, the following links may be helpful.
- Pennsylvania Department of Education Alternative Education for Disruptive Youth home page
- Pennsylvania Department of Education list of licensed/registered schools