Providing a safe, sober, and supportive school environment in which youth in recovery can develop the skills and strengths needed for personal, academic, vocational and community success.
Action for Boston Community Development, Inc. (ABCD) in collaboration with the Gavin Foundation and Boston Public Schools opened William J. Ostiguy High School in September 2006. The school integrates a high school academic curriculum with the development of supportive life skills necessary for students in recovery. All program staff are certified educators and specialists who are responsible for providing appropriate academic programming and oversight both in and outside of school.
Students are referred by schools, family members, courts and other state agencies, drug and alcohol treatment agencies, other community based youth programs, and residential programs. Prospective students must interview with the Ostiguy High School team prior to admission. In addition, students must achieve 30 days of sobriety prior to attending Ostiguy High and must consent to participate in random drug testing while enrolled. Students must also be committed to working an outside plan of recovery and must demonstrate commitment to academic achievement in pursuit of a high school diploma.