Students Served

The Discovery School of Virginia and the Discovery School of Virginia for Girls are  outdoor emotional growth/academic programs for teenage boys and girls who are experiencing emotional. behavioral, and/or learning problems. All students are physically able to participate in the outdoor living program and have at least an average IQ. Typically students are considered emotionally immature for their age; however, they are able to function in a group setting and are capable of developing mutually supportive relationships.

Most students are experiencing ongoing frustration or failure in the traditional or other non-traditional academic settings. Lack of success in school may arise from specific learning difficulties, attention deficits, hyperactivity, lack of motivation, poor study skills, behavior problems, or emotional disabilities. Other difficulties may originate from unresolved emotional, developmental, and/or family issues. Frequently, students have histories of acting out against school and parental rules.

The outdoor environment is a constant teacher for the students and staff, offering challenges and the opportunities to experience tangible success. Emotional growth, personal accountability, relationship development and education are interrelated as a student builds self-confidence and problem solving skills and learns to take responsibility for himself and his education.