New Canaan, CT: Proposal for school for students with mood disorders/mental health problems

Dec 13, 2017, New Canaan (CT) News: Alternative high school program pitched in New Canaan for next year http://www.newcanaannewsonline.com/news/article/Alternative-high-school-program-pitched-in-New-12427348.php While the schools are eyeing a conservative budget for next fiscal year, a few new initiatives — most notably in the form of a proposed alternative high school program — have made the wish list. … Egan said the alternative high school would not only be a day program, but add a therapeutic component that many students need. A committee dedicated to the program studied other outplacement programs, including a program in Ridgefield to help develop a customized alternative concept for New Canaan. The proposed alternative school would also have a flexible academic schedule for both general and special needs students at all high school grade levels. Pianka said students would also be able to transition from the alternative program back into the mainstream program as they felt fit.... According to Egan and Pianka’s presentation, the school would be for students with mood disorders and medical issues impacting their mental health. This includes students with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and bipolar disorder. The program would also be open to students who have just been released from inpatient treatment for eating disorders and substance abuse issues....