Elk River Academics
The Pinnacle Schools (TPS) pioneered the use of a full academic curriculum in a short-term residential setting. We believe no student should fall behind academically during treatment.
We specialize in educating students in grades 6-12. Students attend school Monday through Friday in our 2,800 square foot learning center.
Curriculum. We provide an independent program of study with courses that transfer to a student's primary school. Courses include the full range of core curriculum, advanced placement, honors, college preparatory and elective classes. Our Academic Administrator works closely with parents, students and counselors to design an individualized program of study that best supports each student's unique educational goals.
Dedicated instructors work to help students become independent while building strong academic and problem solving skills. Our academic program teaches to each student's strengths and enables teachers to intercede immediately when conditions indicate help is needed. Close supervision and individual work stations support and motivate students to continue their education while in treatment. Individual tutoring is available on-line, by telephone and on-site for specific subjects.
Hallmarks include:
- Low Student-to-Teacher Ratio
- Remediation
- Skill Building
- Credit Recovery
- College Preparatory Courses
- GED/SAT/ACT Preparation
- Full-Time State-Certified Teachers
- Latest Technology
- Tutorial Services
FAQ about the academic component during treatment:
Q. How do students transfer from one school to another?
A. Parents must withdraw their child from one school to enroll them in another. ERTP works with the local school to match courses as best as possible.
Q. What happens if I enroll my child in the middle of the school year?
A. Should a student enroll in ERTP after completing ½ a semester at his/her local school, our administrators would administer a pre-assessment exam which allows a student to show proficiency in certain subjects and not repeat those lessons. Or if they may need to repeat them, the test will show that. ERTP uses grade reports, class schedules and transcripts to match courses.
Q. How does my child's school work transfer back to their home school?
A. Our computer-based, self-paced curriculum allows students to move along in subjects that they are proficient in and take more time in those that they need help. If they don’t complete a credit while at ERTP, we send a grade report to the home school. That work should transfer.
Q. Do you test to determine where my child starts at Elk River?
A. Therapists administer Connor’s Testing if needed. Academic supervisors can take the results and make necessary adjustments to a student’s course load.
Q. What is the advantage of a computer-based curriculum?
A. Accommodations that public schools make if needed, are already built into our computer-based program. Some adolescents simply respond better to computer-based instruction rather than lecture style.
