Stone One - Orientation/Introspection Phase

Students begin the Elk River Wilderness Challenge with an introduction to the rules, regulations and expectations of the program. They will receive a complete medical, psychological, and academic assessment and are then assigned to a Challenge group along with other new students. Each Challenge group is led by a Treatment Team including a supervisor, trained counselors, and a clinician. Parents will receive weekly updates on the progress of their child.

They will begin attending individual and group therapy sessions led by a licensed clinician. The primary focus in this phase is on self awareness and self control. Through introspection, students are encouraged to identify poor behaviors, the cause of these behaviors and begin to claim ownership of them rather than excusing them or blaming others. Students are given alternative, more effective tools to deal with their behaviors and are encouraged to use them.

Challenge groups begin work/vocational projects and physical training. Students develop new communication skills; they learn the meaning of personal responsibility, accountability, teamwork, interdependency, and how to accept help from others.

Students will begin working with their Treatment Team on a plan for success.

Stone Two - Wisdom Phase

The primary focus in this phase is the establishment of relationships, skill development and implementation, goal setting, and execution of treatment services. Students continue their individual and group therapy sessions, work/vocational projects, and physical training. Students begin attending school Monday - Friday (see course listings), receive training in first aid and outdoor survival techniques and begin a "Discovery Journal".

During the Wisdom Phase, students usually begin to "own their behaviors" and cease blaming others for their destructive attitudes and actions. They become mentally and physically healthier, more focused and self-confident. Each day is highly structured and the end-of-day review reinforces the learning and skill development that has occurred. It is a period of challenge, discovery, and understanding.

Stone Three - Courage Phase

The Courage Phase is an intensive one week off-campus expedition to the National Forests of Alabama, West Virginia, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Illinois, Florida, Missouri, or North Carolina and may include backpacking, canoeing, white water rafting, cycling and other activities. The goal in this phase is to provide a challenging experience that builds the spirit and increases self confidence.

The safety of your child is of paramount importance. Our expedition coordinator is a Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and round the clock radio and logistical support is maintained.

Expeditions are planned specifically for each Challenge Group and are based on age, ability and weather appropriate activities. This phase focuses on the student's use of new communication skills, both individually and collectively. It reinforces acceptable behaviors while building self-esteem through adventure, challenge and accomplishment.

Students learn to appreciate the importance of collective efforts and shared triumphs under the tutelage and guidance of experienced instructors.

Stone Four - Illumination Phase

The primary goal in the Illumination Phase is the development of a plan for future success. The Elk River Wilderness Challenge Treatment Team will work with each student utilizing their Discovery Journals and recent life lessons to help them reflect on their past, assess their progress and develop a plan for future success.

A three-day Parent Workshop Weekend at the end of the program will re-establish communication between family members, clarify roles and responsibilities, address recommendations, and begin healing broken relationships. It is the end of the Challenge course and the beginning of a productive future.

ERWC supports the mission of The Pinnacle Schools by providing an environment of respect, acceptance, and challenge where students can become self directed, educated, and contributing members of society.