Senator Cooney Delivers $100K for Recovery High School at Westside Academy

SENATOR COONEY DELIVERS $100K FOR RECOVERY HIGH SCHOOL AT WESTSIDE ACADEMY

Funding Will Support Recovery High School’s Mission To Provide Substance Abuse Treatment To Students In Need While Continuing Their Academic Pursuits

(Rochester, NY) - Senator Jeremy Cooney (D-Rochester) announced today $100,000 in state funding for Recovery High School at Westside Academy, a transformational program that helps students either at-risk for or recovering from substance abuse. The Senator explained that these funds will directly benefit area students and allow Recovery High School to continue providing services for their student population. 

“The work done at Recovery High School and Westside Academy is life-changing,” said Senator Jeremy Cooney. “For a student suffering from substance abuse, this program allows them to receive the treatment they need while also setting themselves up for future success. That’s why I prioritized funding for these programs, and I’m proud to have delivered this funding to benefit our community’s at-risk students.” 

Recovery High School takes the unique approach of putting students who are suffering from substance abuse on the track to recovery, while also preparing them to earn a Regents Diploma. Students who qualify are provided with support from professionals while they continue their studies. The school is a collaborative effort between several community partners including Monroe 2-Orleans BOCES and Huther Doyle. 

Joanne Antonacci, District Superintendent of Monroe 2-Orleans BOCES said, “Monroe 2-Orleans BOCES is extremely grateful to Senator Cooney for recognizing that programs such as the Recovery Program at Westside Academy are essential to our community.” 

Martha Willis, Principal of Westside Academy said, “Monroe 2-Orleans BOCES is committed to providing the necessary wrap-around supports to allow Westside Academy students struggling with substance-use disorders to be successful both academically, and in recovery. We are grateful to Senator Cooney for his commitment to us. This funding will allow us to strengthen what we provide to students and their families creating a lasting positive impact on our community.”

Kelly Reed, President and CEO of Huther Doyle said, “The partnership between Huther Doyle and Westside Academy emphasizes our shared commitment to addressing the challenges faced by young individuals battling substance use disorder. By combining evidence-based practices with personalized support, we empower adolescents to overcome obstacles and cultivate a brighter future. Through therapeutic interventions, educational resources, and community engagement initiatives, we strive to foster resilience and instill hope in adolescents navigating the complexities of recovery. Together with Westside Academy, we are making meaningful strides towards building a healthier and more resilient community.”

Senator Cooney explained that in addition to Recovery High School, Westside Academy serves students from across the region by meeting their individual needs. Students are referred to the alternative high school from their home districts where they can benefit from smaller class sizes and additional educational supports. Teachers and staff help students overcome obstacles like past behavioral issues or academic struggles to help the students prepare for their next steps after high school. 38 students currently attend Westside Academy.

Recovery High Schools were first proposed to target areas of the state that have been most-impacted by alcohol and drug addiction. The $100,000 for the school at Westside Academy came from a resolution in last year’s New York State budget (2023-R555) which set aside $500,000 for recovery high schools across the state. 
 

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