WOODFORD COUNTY, Ky. (LEX 18) — A school in Woodford County is offering students unique learning experiences tailored just for them.
The motto of the Safe Harbor Academy in Woodford County is, “Work Hard, Stay Positive, and Do What’s Right,” but many say what they do goes far beyond that motto. The school of 35 students, grades 6-12, is redefining the concept of alternative learning.
“Alternative carries a kind of connotation with it, and it’s not,” said guidance counselor Rhiannon Ashcraft.
The school focuses on academics, but they also put an emphasis on emotional and mental health, using a holistic approach to work past any personal traumas.
“We’re able to modify the program options for all of our students individually,” said Principal Logan Culbertson.
They also have hands-on learning experiences like maintaining an aquaponics operation and raising their own tilapia. They take monthly field trips to the life adventure center where they gain valuable life skills.
“I feel like every school should have it, because it gives the kids a chance to have fun and get along with other people they don’t normally get along with,” student Matthew Page told LEX 18.
Culbertson watches his students change and grow, each in their own way, learning to do so in an environment just for them.
“Learning is a collaborative experience,” said Culbertson. “We tried to build that through our culture of trust and support our students, meet them where they are each day and support them to the best of our ability,” said Culbertson.
Children are accepted to Safe Harbor on an application basis. Click here for more information.
