Most of these comments are SO way off base about Carlbrook. My son was among one of the first graduating classes of the school at the end of 2004. CARLBROOK SAVED HIS LIFE. He gained back his feelings of self-worth and self-esteem. He believed in himself again after years of feeling he would never amount to anything. He felt motivated to do his schoolwork again. The sparkle came back into his eyes. He stands tall and proud. He is confident. And now, in his second year in College, he is a straight A student at the top Engineering school in the country (something Justin Merritt, Carlbrook's College Advisor, worked hours to help make happen.)
The founders of the school sacrificed a great deal to give up their businesses, careers, etc. and relocate to the middle of Virginia. They then put their hearts, souls, money, futures into this dream of theirs which was to make the perfect school for kids who are today, like they were when they were teens. They culled the best talent and won them over to leave everything and bring their families to Virginia to join them in building this dream. All of these educators, counselors, people who were so experienced in working with troubled teens knew that so many schools fall provide inadequate programs that do not improve these kids at all. Grant and Matthew wanted to develop a program that they wished they had had, back when they were teens. They felt that with the right staff and resources, they could succeed in getting kids back on track.
Grant Price and Matthew Lovell had a vision and brought in the talent (including themselves) to make it a reality. My son now keeps in touch with many successful alumnae of Carlbrook who continue to be doing well in College and have not lapsed back into old patterns.
For parents considering these schools: Do research...Use an education Consultant if there is a good one in your community. He/she will guide you toward a good fit for your child. Good luck
And as a parent, I can tell you, for my son, I will be forever indebted to them.
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