|
One of the secrets to the success of the program at Happy Hill Farm is the predictable daily routine. The students awaken at the same time each school day. Weekends are more relaxed and schedules may vary depending on the sporting events off-campus, field trips, shopping, etc. After breakfast in the individual homes, the students attend school from 8:30 am until 3:30 pm. After-school activities include sports practices and the care of livestock. Lunch and the evening meal are served in the campus dining center. After dinner, there is mandatory study hour. Bedtime during the week depends on the age of the students.
In each home, where houseparents and eight boys or girls live, there are daily chores. Each student is assigned a job that is meaningful that will contribute to the health and welfare of the group. This may include emptying trash cans, washing dishes, vacuuming, etc. Television and radio time are limited. There are programs that are off-limits to the students due to inappropriate content.
The students operate on a merit system. The philosophy is simple. It is much more constructive to reward good behavior than to deal with negative behavior. Under this system, called the "level system," good behavior will allow students, who attain certain levels, to live in homes where there are many privileges. Conversely, inappropriate behavior will result in a student living in a home that is much more restrictive.
Off-campus activities, particularly on weekends, include movies, shopping, musical presentations, museums, and art galleries, to name a few. There are regular scheduled family visits, at which time students may leave the campus with their families. Families often choose to attend chapel with their children, where visitors are always welcome and in attendance. In addition, there are regularly scheduled holidays for the students. |
 |
