The Chesterfield Recovery Academy held its third completion ceremony May 16 to celebrate the 27 students enrolled this year. Seven of those students have completed their diploma requirements and will graduate with their home high schools this month. An eighth student is on track to graduate in July.
The May 16 ceremony included remarks by Chesterfield Recovery Academy Coordinator Justin Savoy; Chesterfield County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. John Murray; Chesterfield County School Board Chair Ann Coker; Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors Chair Jim Ingle; and Virginia Del. Carrie Coyner.
Chesterfield Recovery Academy students wrote about their experiences in the program:
“Coming to this school made me realize how much potential I actually have.”
“I was scared to start here at first because I didn’t want to leave all my friends behind, but I have actually made amazing friends here who are on the same path as me. Having people my age going through the same thing and supporting me is truly an amazing feeling.”
“This school took a real weight off of my mental health and gave me room to grow.”
“Since I’ve been here, I have been doing better. I have had my ups and downs but the staff help me get back up and on the right track.”
“I’m really glad I got into this program because I don’t know what would’ve been of my life if I hadn’t.”
Virginia’s first recovery academy, the Chesterfield Recovery Academy opened in August 2022. “One step, one day, one success at a time” is the philosophy of the program, which serves high school students from central Virginia who are recovering from drug addiction. The program is a collaboration among 15 localities, the commonwealth of Virginia and community partners. Learn more about the Chesterfield Recovery Academy..