A Win/Win for Families and Schools
By Randall Cook
Operations Manager
Core Solutions
www.CoreBB.com
Core Solutions is the next chapter in the evolution of private Schools. It’s not just the best of technology that makes Core Solutions an ideal industry partner. It’s the Core Solutions team’s experience and understanding of this industry that makes their ability to successfully apply and integrate the latest technology to meet the needs of the families, staff and individual programs. Core Solutions creates a win/win scenario for all. Core Solutions private, secured system provides the support, communication, and encouragement parents hunger for when their child is in treatment.
“We are very happy, but most importantly, our parents are delighted with this service", comments Richard Williams, (Former) Director of Marketing and Business Development, Three Springs Adolescent Treatment Programs.
In this day and age, parents are eager, and in some cases demanding more parent support and involvement. In attempting to bridge that gap, many Schools offer parent workshops, conferences and seminars. Yet the on-going needs parents naturally have for information, connection and support during the time their child is in their program, outstrips all best efforts of any staff. To each family, there is only one child in the Program … their’s. Yet the Program Staff are responsible for all students in their care. Recognizing the value of mentoring, some Schools have parent support groups meeting in various locations around the country. Yet, many families cannot attend because they do not reside close enough to where they’re being held.
The solution? Simply bring the support group to them … in their own living, room, home office, at work, airports, in the US or out. They can be connected anywhere. It is support they can access 24/7, anytime of the day or night, 365 days a year. Parents have a need to connect to someone else who knows exactly what they are going through. They need support and encouragement for their family’s tough challenges. They want to celebrate with someone who will truly understand their joy as progress is made. Who better to do that then other families who have been there, done that? Connecting with other parents sharing their own family healing and who can offer encouragement to stay the course.
“One of the most important trends in private residential schools and programs for children with problems has been to bring parents into the loop,” states Lon Woodbury, Woodbury Reports, Inc. (Parents in the Loop -http://www.strugglingteens.com/artman/publish/article_5493.shtml)
Dean Porterfield, Program Administrator for Three Springs of Duck River reports, “Our relationship with Core Solutions has been a very positive experience and has aided in our Program taking the support we offer our families to the next level. I have heard nothing but positive things from all of my clients. Many have asked, ‘I can't imagine not having the support of the Community Board, how did we survive before?’ It has aided in our families sharing their emotional journeys of growth, and they know support for those tough days is only a click away. In addition, the support services have been exceptional.”
Technology, and the desire of parents to be involved, will not fade away. Welcome this change that will create more opportunity for your parents to become part of the solution. In our commitment to creating a win/win there is a standing invitation for all families who want a “virtual support group” at their Facility. Feel free to contact us to be sure your School is not being overlooked.
Core Solutions will customize your private, secured, Community to meet and support your individual Program format. Learn how simple and quick it is to have your online Community launched. With Core Solutions services in place, you will become known as a Family Friendly Program. www.CoreBB.com
Randall Cook has applied his vast experience, intensity and insight to Core Solutions and as a result has created an unrivaled value for Core’s client Programs and Schools, and their incredible parents. In the years since graduating an adolescent residential program himself, he went on to work in various capacities in the private youth placement arena. Now being the proud husband and father of a wonderful young family himself, he has found great purpose in serving other parents and their families.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Auldern Academy Boarding School
Auldern Academy
Siler City, North Carolina
Jane Samuel, Head of School
919.837.2336
http://www.auldern.com/
http://www.threesprings.com/
Visit by Randall Cook , Core Solutions
July 6th, 2007
Initially, I had no intention of actually writing about my Facility visit and posting it. However, I was so taken by my experience at Auldern Academy that I felt it my duty to share it with the many parents, professionals, and even critics who frequent the Struggling Teens hub.
“Auldern Academy” is Scottish for the “Academy by the River,” which well describes the 85 acres of lush grounds surrounding the campus. Auldern sits on a beautiful area of lush green land, with blooming flowers and hedges meticulously placed throughout the campus, tucked away in the North Carolina hills.
Auldern Academy is ideal for young women in grades 9-12 who would benefit from more structure and support than a mainstream school would provide. Auldern accepts students from traditional schools, as well as those who’ve had a successful experience in an emotional growth or therapeutic program. Auldern enables students to best prepare themselves for the challenges of college environment and independence. Not just academically, but emotionally and socially as well. Auldern achieves this result through a combination of Academics, Arts, Crafts, Therapy, Exercise and Family Involvement.
My first impression, upon arriving at the driveway of Auldern’s campus, was so striking I had to stop my little rental car and get out and take a picture. (The picture above.) It was just so beautiful. As I continued my journey up the drive there were slight bends, well manicured lawn on both sides of the road, and each curve displayed well arranged flower beds outlined with rock walls. This awe inspiring experience was further enhanced by the cathedral-like trees standing watch.
After enjoying several minutes more of this pleasant drive I arrived at the main part of the campus. The road and trees opened up presenting some great Southern style architecture located around a very large pond, with water cascading from the center. I parked and exited my car just at the same time some parents were arriving at the Academy. I followed them into the main hall where I was immediately greeted by Staff and more parents. While visiting with Auldern’s parents, it really stood out to me that they had taken the time to educate and familiarize themselves with both NATSAP and IECA. The overall atmosphere was one of true serenity and calmness delivered in a very professional way. It made a great impression upon me.
After some introductions were made, I was guided back to the office of the Head of School, Ms. Jane Samuel and joined by the Assistant Head of School, Mr. William “Bill” Grant. Again I was struck by their very warm and welcoming reception. As we visited, I was very impressed with their passion and pride for the accomplishments and changes that Auldern Academy has made since their arrival about a year ago. They are clearly professionals to be regarded as experts in their field.
We wandered out of the office and toured the campus. It was a great day to be outside. The July weather in North Carolina was better than what I had left behind in Southern California; I hadn’t expected this. As we continued the tour, I was awestruck at the volumes of student artwork and crafts proudly displayed. Collections of paintings, charcoal sketches, pottery, watercolors, oil paintings, scrap booking, sculptures, etc. lined the walls, cabinets and shelf space in each room. It was amazing. There are clearly some incredible artists attending Auldern. I’m sure some have more interest or talent than others, but they certainly have an ample stock of art supplies that even someone like me could learn and enjoy an artistic outlet. In my experience in over a decade of visiting different Schools in different States, Auldern now joins a select few who stand out proud with such detail and character, and such personalized touches that so strongly reflect the talents and interests of their dynamic students.
After touring the computer labs, academic building and dining facilities, we strolled over to the residential housing. There were some young ladies sitting out front in rocking chairs, engaged in small talk, enjoying the beautiful day and appeared captivated by the sounds and movement of the water spraying up in the pond. They were very polite about our interruption and made certain to greet us on our way into the large dorm. Upon entering I could not help but again notice all of the artwork on display. This building really reinforced a home-away-from-home feel; very subtle and soft. It was remarkable. It made me reflect on how confident and comforting this would make me feel, as a parent.
Next, we took our time walking over to the recreation building, strolling past the immense pond. In that building they offer the young ladies a basketball court, stationary bikes, a pool table, a pottery wheel, a wide variety of art supplies, a treadmill, and even an Ab Lounger.
Lunch time was soon approaching so we walked back to the dining hall. The dining hall is painted in a light yellow, with an off-white trim and large windows pouring in sunlight and overlooking the main area of the campus. It had the feel of a cozy Southern Bed and Breakfast. We were offered a very healthy buffet style meal. Jane, Bill, and I took a seat with a couple of students. Just like the young ladies encountered earlier, the parents on campus, and Staff, these students once again made it a point to welcome us to their table. During our meal I was struck by the genuine camaraderie and courteousness that was so evident throughout the campus. Everyone knew everyone else and was so polite to one another. I never got the impression there were any type of cliques or groups anywhere on the campus. Everyone treated each other with dignity and respect.
After lunch, we headed back to Jane’s office. This gave me a chance to get a deeper understanding of Jane’s and Bill’s commitment and respect for the young women they are guiding and families they serve. I got a chance to get to know more about Bill Grant and was very impressed with his experience and education he has to offer. It’s evident that Jane Samuel lives and breaths Auldern Academy, as well as having a good working relationship with the local community. It’s clear she knows every inch of the property and every aspect of the program. She’s in the moment and up to date on what’s happening.
On my drive back I was anxious to call my little family and share my experience, because it had been that memorable.
I would like to thank Jane Samuel, Bill Grant, Crystal Cox, and the rest of the Auldern Staff members I met. They have a winning team. My thanks and appreciation extend to all of the friendly parents and young ladies I met as well. I am excited for what lies ahead for each of you.
Siler City, North Carolina
Jane Samuel, Head of School
919.837.2336
http://www.auldern.com/
http://www.threesprings.com/
Visit by Randall Cook , Core Solutions
July 6th, 2007
Initially, I had no intention of actually writing about my Facility visit and posting it. However, I was so taken by my experience at Auldern Academy that I felt it my duty to share it with the many parents, professionals, and even critics who frequent the Struggling Teens hub.
“Auldern Academy” is Scottish for the “Academy by the River,” which well describes the 85 acres of lush grounds surrounding the campus. Auldern sits on a beautiful area of lush green land, with blooming flowers and hedges meticulously placed throughout the campus, tucked away in the North Carolina hills.
Auldern Academy is ideal for young women in grades 9-12 who would benefit from more structure and support than a mainstream school would provide. Auldern accepts students from traditional schools, as well as those who’ve had a successful experience in an emotional growth or therapeutic program. Auldern enables students to best prepare themselves for the challenges of college environment and independence. Not just academically, but emotionally and socially as well. Auldern achieves this result through a combination of Academics, Arts, Crafts, Therapy, Exercise and Family Involvement.
My first impression, upon arriving at the driveway of Auldern’s campus, was so striking I had to stop my little rental car and get out and take a picture. (The picture above.) It was just so beautiful. As I continued my journey up the drive there were slight bends, well manicured lawn on both sides of the road, and each curve displayed well arranged flower beds outlined with rock walls. This awe inspiring experience was further enhanced by the cathedral-like trees standing watch.
After enjoying several minutes more of this pleasant drive I arrived at the main part of the campus. The road and trees opened up presenting some great Southern style architecture located around a very large pond, with water cascading from the center. I parked and exited my car just at the same time some parents were arriving at the Academy. I followed them into the main hall where I was immediately greeted by Staff and more parents. While visiting with Auldern’s parents, it really stood out to me that they had taken the time to educate and familiarize themselves with both NATSAP and IECA. The overall atmosphere was one of true serenity and calmness delivered in a very professional way. It made a great impression upon me.
After some introductions were made, I was guided back to the office of the Head of School, Ms. Jane Samuel and joined by the Assistant Head of School, Mr. William “Bill” Grant. Again I was struck by their very warm and welcoming reception. As we visited, I was very impressed with their passion and pride for the accomplishments and changes that Auldern Academy has made since their arrival about a year ago. They are clearly professionals to be regarded as experts in their field.
We wandered out of the office and toured the campus. It was a great day to be outside. The July weather in North Carolina was better than what I had left behind in Southern California; I hadn’t expected this. As we continued the tour, I was awestruck at the volumes of student artwork and crafts proudly displayed. Collections of paintings, charcoal sketches, pottery, watercolors, oil paintings, scrap booking, sculptures, etc. lined the walls, cabinets and shelf space in each room. It was amazing. There are clearly some incredible artists attending Auldern. I’m sure some have more interest or talent than others, but they certainly have an ample stock of art supplies that even someone like me could learn and enjoy an artistic outlet. In my experience in over a decade of visiting different Schools in different States, Auldern now joins a select few who stand out proud with such detail and character, and such personalized touches that so strongly reflect the talents and interests of their dynamic students.
After touring the computer labs, academic building and dining facilities, we strolled over to the residential housing. There were some young ladies sitting out front in rocking chairs, engaged in small talk, enjoying the beautiful day and appeared captivated by the sounds and movement of the water spraying up in the pond. They were very polite about our interruption and made certain to greet us on our way into the large dorm. Upon entering I could not help but again notice all of the artwork on display. This building really reinforced a home-away-from-home feel; very subtle and soft. It was remarkable. It made me reflect on how confident and comforting this would make me feel, as a parent.
Next, we took our time walking over to the recreation building, strolling past the immense pond. In that building they offer the young ladies a basketball court, stationary bikes, a pool table, a pottery wheel, a wide variety of art supplies, a treadmill, and even an Ab Lounger.
Lunch time was soon approaching so we walked back to the dining hall. The dining hall is painted in a light yellow, with an off-white trim and large windows pouring in sunlight and overlooking the main area of the campus. It had the feel of a cozy Southern Bed and Breakfast. We were offered a very healthy buffet style meal. Jane, Bill, and I took a seat with a couple of students. Just like the young ladies encountered earlier, the parents on campus, and Staff, these students once again made it a point to welcome us to their table. During our meal I was struck by the genuine camaraderie and courteousness that was so evident throughout the campus. Everyone knew everyone else and was so polite to one another. I never got the impression there were any type of cliques or groups anywhere on the campus. Everyone treated each other with dignity and respect.
After lunch, we headed back to Jane’s office. This gave me a chance to get a deeper understanding of Jane’s and Bill’s commitment and respect for the young women they are guiding and families they serve. I got a chance to get to know more about Bill Grant and was very impressed with his experience and education he has to offer. It’s evident that Jane Samuel lives and breaths Auldern Academy, as well as having a good working relationship with the local community. It’s clear she knows every inch of the property and every aspect of the program. She’s in the moment and up to date on what’s happening.
On my drive back I was anxious to call my little family and share my experience, because it had been that memorable.
I would like to thank Jane Samuel, Bill Grant, Crystal Cox, and the rest of the Auldern Staff members I met. They have a winning team. My thanks and appreciation extend to all of the friendly parents and young ladies I met as well. I am excited for what lies ahead for each of you.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Change is Not a Four Letter Word
By Glenda Gabriel
Core Solutions
www.CoreBB.com
Change . . . an amazingly powerful and often times emotionally charged word. Change can be a word that seems like such a great idea when directed towards someone else; i.e. how “they” can change in a way that will make your life better. At the other end of the spectrum, the word “change” can trigger fear and resistance in a nanosecond if someone says you need to do it. Or, it can be embraced and welcomed by choosing to move forward with an attitude of gratitude and appreciation for the opportunities change can bring to the quality of your life.
Whether you’re toying with the idea that something different needs to be done, already made the decision things must be done differently, or moved to action to create a different outcome, change becomes part of the equation. Change happens in all areas of life. No area of change is seen more intensely then with families of struggling teens.
Needed change seems obvious in a teen whose life has gone off the tracks through poor choices and behaviors and has become a risk to themselves and/or others. When it’s determined that intervention placement in a private residential school or program is the responsible, loving decision needed, it is important to remember that your child’s true and lasting change will not happen fast, nor on your timeline.
Key to remember is that your teen is just one member of your family system. For the optimal outcome, the entire family needs to be committed and open to change. For starters, what’s going on in their life affects all members of your family. Your teen has done a very good job of signaling “this system is not working.” They are waving a very large, very scary red flag. Wise parents will step up to the plate and willingly be part of the solution.
It’s a Process: There are specific stages of change that experts have identified. Lasting change is going to involve going through all of the various stages. But don’t expect change to be made in a straight line. They will go back and forth many times.
1) Being in resistance, or denial, to any change needed.
2) Considering the possibility of the need for change in the future.
3) Decision that change is needed. Making a plan and setting gradual goals.
4) Taking action. Putting specific plans into play.
5) Maintaining and internalizing the change. Incorporating the change into your life.
Look at the changes you’ve made in your own life: changes in diet, workouts, even cutting back on your work schedule. Can you see how these stages in change fluctuated and flowed? How many times did you repeat the steps? Start. Give up. Go back. Start again.
Don’t Hover: The tendency for parents of children in treatment is to hover and hang on their child’s every movement longing to hear a report or some evidence that they’ve had a miraculous “ah-ha” moment. But change generally comes slowly. It evolves. It’s a process of forward and backward movement. How well would it work for you if someone stood over you with the spoken or unspoken expectation of your needing to make changes in order to make them happy? Would that motivate you? Lasting change must come from within. It must come from their own desire of wanting something different for their life.
Care vs. Control: Be interested, but don’t attempt to maneuver or manipulate their changes through enabling, guilt-trips, anger or avoidance. Whether they tell you or not, you are the most important person in their life. Be willing to hear they are struggling. It’s part of the process of change. It’s also an important part of what they need to learn to be successful.
Be supportive: It’s important that your child know you are in alignment, and in support of, their program and staff. If you have an issue or concern in those areas, do not discuss it with your child. Do not let your emotions or tone of voice betray you. If your child is in any resistance to change, they will see that as a chance to divide and manipulate. It’s critical to your child’s and your family’s success, that you create a unified team.
No sugar coating: In your willingness to be part of the solution, be willing to openly hear the reports of your staff. Don’t set yourself up to expect glowing reports every week. You want to know what’s real. Your child is in treatment because serious changes needed to be made. It will take time. Yes, it is hard. But you’re tougher. You have to be. So find things to be happy about, even when the reports aren’t what you wanted to hear. Such as, be grateful your child is safe and with people dedicated to working with both of you.
Be a team player: Make it easy for your staff to work with you. These are people who do what they do because they care about making a difference. Do your part to make sure they were glad they showed up for work today.
Results based: True change will show up in your child’s results. Your child knows what you want to hear. It’s their actions that will speak to their changes, in either forward or backward movement. Pay attention to how they are interacting with their peers, working with staff and responding or reacting to you.
Setbacks: Sometimes successful change can be so frightening to a teen who lacks self-trust and confidence, that it triggers self-sabotage and setback. Recognizing that setbacks are a typical part of the change process can help you prepare for measures on your part that will help your child get back on track.
Take care: Instead of hanging your happiness and well-being on the status of your child’s change, or lack thereof, be good to you. Give yourself permission to enjoy life. Pay attention to your changes. Take this time to restore the balance in your life. If all of your conversations and thoughts are consumed with your program child, then others in your life are getting shortchanged, starting with you. Your child needs a happy, healthy parent who is modeling a life of self-appreciation and personal happiness.
You’re the parent. Your child needs to know they can count on you to stay the course. Be open to learning and seeking ways you can contribute to the solutions your family needs. Be courageous enough to work with your staff, ask your child, ask your family members and self-inventory the changes you can make to create a successful home environment. By your example, your child needs to know that change is not a four letter word.
Glenda Gabriel is a strong advocate for parent's rights and the parent-choice industry. In addition to being the mother of a program graduate, she’s worked for many years developing vital parent support services for structured residential boarding schools.
Core Solutions
www.CoreBB.com
Change . . . an amazingly powerful and often times emotionally charged word. Change can be a word that seems like such a great idea when directed towards someone else; i.e. how “they” can change in a way that will make your life better. At the other end of the spectrum, the word “change” can trigger fear and resistance in a nanosecond if someone says you need to do it. Or, it can be embraced and welcomed by choosing to move forward with an attitude of gratitude and appreciation for the opportunities change can bring to the quality of your life.
Whether you’re toying with the idea that something different needs to be done, already made the decision things must be done differently, or moved to action to create a different outcome, change becomes part of the equation. Change happens in all areas of life. No area of change is seen more intensely then with families of struggling teens.
Needed change seems obvious in a teen whose life has gone off the tracks through poor choices and behaviors and has become a risk to themselves and/or others. When it’s determined that intervention placement in a private residential school or program is the responsible, loving decision needed, it is important to remember that your child’s true and lasting change will not happen fast, nor on your timeline.
Key to remember is that your teen is just one member of your family system. For the optimal outcome, the entire family needs to be committed and open to change. For starters, what’s going on in their life affects all members of your family. Your teen has done a very good job of signaling “this system is not working.” They are waving a very large, very scary red flag. Wise parents will step up to the plate and willingly be part of the solution.
It’s a Process: There are specific stages of change that experts have identified. Lasting change is going to involve going through all of the various stages. But don’t expect change to be made in a straight line. They will go back and forth many times.
1) Being in resistance, or denial, to any change needed.
2) Considering the possibility of the need for change in the future.
3) Decision that change is needed. Making a plan and setting gradual goals.
4) Taking action. Putting specific plans into play.
5) Maintaining and internalizing the change. Incorporating the change into your life.
Look at the changes you’ve made in your own life: changes in diet, workouts, even cutting back on your work schedule. Can you see how these stages in change fluctuated and flowed? How many times did you repeat the steps? Start. Give up. Go back. Start again.
Don’t Hover: The tendency for parents of children in treatment is to hover and hang on their child’s every movement longing to hear a report or some evidence that they’ve had a miraculous “ah-ha” moment. But change generally comes slowly. It evolves. It’s a process of forward and backward movement. How well would it work for you if someone stood over you with the spoken or unspoken expectation of your needing to make changes in order to make them happy? Would that motivate you? Lasting change must come from within. It must come from their own desire of wanting something different for their life.
Care vs. Control: Be interested, but don’t attempt to maneuver or manipulate their changes through enabling, guilt-trips, anger or avoidance. Whether they tell you or not, you are the most important person in their life. Be willing to hear they are struggling. It’s part of the process of change. It’s also an important part of what they need to learn to be successful.
Be supportive: It’s important that your child know you are in alignment, and in support of, their program and staff. If you have an issue or concern in those areas, do not discuss it with your child. Do not let your emotions or tone of voice betray you. If your child is in any resistance to change, they will see that as a chance to divide and manipulate. It’s critical to your child’s and your family’s success, that you create a unified team.
No sugar coating: In your willingness to be part of the solution, be willing to openly hear the reports of your staff. Don’t set yourself up to expect glowing reports every week. You want to know what’s real. Your child is in treatment because serious changes needed to be made. It will take time. Yes, it is hard. But you’re tougher. You have to be. So find things to be happy about, even when the reports aren’t what you wanted to hear. Such as, be grateful your child is safe and with people dedicated to working with both of you.
Be a team player: Make it easy for your staff to work with you. These are people who do what they do because they care about making a difference. Do your part to make sure they were glad they showed up for work today.
Results based: True change will show up in your child’s results. Your child knows what you want to hear. It’s their actions that will speak to their changes, in either forward or backward movement. Pay attention to how they are interacting with their peers, working with staff and responding or reacting to you.
Setbacks: Sometimes successful change can be so frightening to a teen who lacks self-trust and confidence, that it triggers self-sabotage and setback. Recognizing that setbacks are a typical part of the change process can help you prepare for measures on your part that will help your child get back on track.
Take care: Instead of hanging your happiness and well-being on the status of your child’s change, or lack thereof, be good to you. Give yourself permission to enjoy life. Pay attention to your changes. Take this time to restore the balance in your life. If all of your conversations and thoughts are consumed with your program child, then others in your life are getting shortchanged, starting with you. Your child needs a happy, healthy parent who is modeling a life of self-appreciation and personal happiness.
You’re the parent. Your child needs to know they can count on you to stay the course. Be open to learning and seeking ways you can contribute to the solutions your family needs. Be courageous enough to work with your staff, ask your child, ask your family members and self-inventory the changes you can make to create a successful home environment. By your example, your child needs to know that change is not a four letter word.
Glenda Gabriel is a strong advocate for parent's rights and the parent-choice industry. In addition to being the mother of a program graduate, she’s worked for many years developing vital parent support services for structured residential boarding schools.
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