Friday, September 30, 2016
Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, Springfield Public Schools (SPS) Superintendent Daniel Warwick, Health and Human Services Commissioner Helen Caulton Harris, Sheriff Michael Ashe and district attorneys from throughout the area gathered today to recognize National Recovery Month at the SPS Liberty Preparatory High School, one of only five recovery schools serving the region.
Mayor Sarno stated, ”Though controversial when we started this initiative, I will continue to stand in support of empowering and giving ‘earned second chances,’ to our kids to let them know and understand that there is a better way to go in becoming a productive member of society.”
Sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Recovery Month is observed every September to increase awareness and understanding of mental and substance use disorders and celebrate the people who recover.
“Substance use disorders are a treatable, yet serious health care problem and we can take steps to address and together build a healthier community that supports those individuals and families that are impacted by this devastating disease,” said Health and Human Services Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris.
Liberty Preparatory Academy, which is located at 37 Alderman Street, provides high quality academic experience for students struggling with substance abuse issues. The school accepts students who need supports in their sobriety and who have a diagnosis of addiction. A willingness to become clean and sober is a requirement. Fourteen students are currently enrolled in the school.
“Liberty Preparatory High School provides Springfield Public Schools a unique opportunity to meet the needs of the whole student in a highly specialized, very targeted manner,” said Superintendent Daniel Warwick. “For some families who find themselves traversing the ravaging seas of addiction, Liberty Prep has offered a life preserver and there is no better time than National Recovery Month to recognize the school, its mission, administrators, counselors, teachers, students and families.”
