Denver, USA: 5280 High School in Denver, the largest recovery high school in the U.S., supports students battling alcohol and substance use disorders by focusing on stabilizing their recovery and helping them regain confidence and purpose. Through project-based learning and the guidance of recovery coaches with personal experience in addiction, the school offers a supportive environment for students who have struggled in traditional settings.
Recovery coaches like former teacher Darryl Brown use their recovery journeys to inspire students. Brown emphasizes the importance of connection in overcoming addiction and aims to help students develop coping skills for challenges in recovery. Like senior Kyara Molina Suarez, students find inspiration in the coaches' stories and experience renewed hope for their future.
5280 High School is tuition-free, ensuring accessibility for families, but relies on fundraising to meet its financial needs. Director of Recovery Keith Hayes highlights the importance of securing additional resources, including recovery coaches and therapists, to continue providing essential services to students. The school remains open for enrollment, dedicated to giving students a chance at a life of sobriety and success.
