Allynwood Academy
Hancock, NY

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Allynwood Academy Update

Dear Colleagues and Friends,

A funny thing happened on our way to closing the school…

Wow - what an experience this has been for us all. It has been an emotional roller coaster and yet the good in so many people have shown through. First, our students by in large handled the news with remarkable maturity. There were many tears and hugs, expressions of reflection and reminiscing, as well as excitement and fear about the future. The environment at the school did not dissolve into chaos but rather most students reflected on changes they had made, relationships formed, and the possibilities that now existed for their futures - and supported each other. And most remarkably, some students asked to stay to finish out the semester - and maybe even the school year. Others have been transitioning out in a controlled, organized way, with the help of many of you who are guiding the parents - and we thank you for that, and for all of you who offered your help. Others have needed more time to find the best program or are waiting on start dates, and those students are continuing on with us until the appropriate placement is found. We are thankful we did not need to close and shutter the doors, but had the flexibility of doing what was best for the students.

Alumni also gave their support. One recent graduate offered to volunteer his time for the remainder of the summer to give back to the school, while another alum wrote this message in a handwritten letter "although I know this is nothing compared to what you are facing, what little I have to give would not be possible without each and every one of you. I love you all and wish I could do more". Enclosed was $400 in cash.

Parents (current and alum) have called and wrote messages of thanks and appreciation. Even those directly impacted by the "closing" whose were most inconvenienced have been wonderful in their support for all of us and for the school.

Even as our staff grappled with unemployment and all the uncertainty that goes with that, staff still showed up to work and helped maintain the necessary structure and support. Some staff stepped forward to volunteer their time and others who are committed to the mission have stayed on as the core staff caring for the students who remain in our care.

Finally, supporters near and far began to show up, with offers of help, commitments to reinvigorate the school, and various investors and potential buyers began discussions with us.

So, here we are again, ironically with a small group of students essentially living with the Argiros family and some key staff, just like how the school started three decades ago. We are still on the same property (at least for now). We retain our school charter, our accreditation and ability to provide counseling (two PT licensed therapists) and 12-step recovery support. We are also excited that our certified special education teacher and two others teacher have been able to be re-hired along with a number of support staff.

For those who know the Argiros family and those of us who have partnered with them know that they have always been open and transparent, for better or for worse. And so, one day at a time, they carry on the mission unsure of what the future will hold. What is clear is they cannot do it by themselves. We are entertaining about five legitimate offers from investors, schools, or organizations who have interest in the property, school and/or operations. The one that looks most promising will allow us to continue on this property until we find a more appropriate setting for the number of students and type of program we now want to operate. Toward that end, we may be able to accept a VERY limited number of select students in the weeks or months ahead and I will of course keep you posted on that and the continuation of our very long and unique journey. Those students will have to want to be here and thus would be involved in the decision making process alongside of their parents. We do have one student who left in the spring now desiring to return to finish out his high school credits and so he will be returning to do so.

We have been moved by the outpouring of support and encouragement by so many and this has bolstered our resolve to reinvigorate the school. We intend to do our best with the twelve or so students who have chosen to remain and will keep you all posted on where God leads us. Someone aptly used the analogy that the school is in dry dock and the ship may be rebuilt. What shape or form that may take is too early to say.

Thanks again for your thoughts and prayers.

Warmly,
Jeffrey Brain, MA, CTS, CEP
Executive Dean of Admissions & Director of External Relations
Certified Educational Planner/Certified Trauma Specialist

Allynwood Academy is a private, therapeutic boarding school for teens at risk, serving grades 9 through 12.