Accredited Special Purpose Private School

Second Nature is uniquely accredited as a Special Purpose Private School with a curriculum approved and nationally recognized by Cognia. Cognia accreditation is recognized across state lines, which not only eases the transfer process as students move from school to school but also assures parents that the school is meeting nationally accepted standards for quality and successful professional practice.

Second Nature's delivery of an academic curriculum affords instructors and clinicians the ability to observe and address a student's academic challenges, as these challenges are often intertwined with the student's clinical issues. Study skills, anxious reactions, resistance to work and follow-through, and rebellion against parental and academic authority become themes through the use of the academic curriculum.

Additionally, the delivery of an academic curriculum provides each student with a continuing sense of academic progress while participating in nature-based therapy. The therapist will review academic work as an assessment of the dynamics that may have led to or contributed to mental health struggles. Many of the students admitted to Second Nature began demonstrating difficulties in school as a symptom of their struggles; therefore this academic element of the program becomes a critical aspect of treatment. 

Each child is provided a curriculum packet, which contains a carefully tailored academic curriculum. Biology, English, P.E., and Psychology credits are contextually based on the nature-based therapeutic experience. The lessons are created to continue the child's education and challenge the student to develop skills for academic and classroom success. Second Nature provides the opportunity for students to receive full semesters of academic credits for completed coursework. Transcripts and grades for completed credits are provided at the completion of the program.

If you have specific questions regarding the curriculum or accreditation of Second Nature, please contact our Academic Director, Andie McLain at Andiem@second-nature.com.