Cedarhurst School, a junior and senior high school for students with serious social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties that is operated by Yale's Department of Psychiatry, was re-accredited through June 30, 2017 with commendations for its leadership, staff, and curriculum. During this standard re-evaluation process conducted by the Connecticut State Department of Education it was determined that the program continues to operate in accordance with the requirements of the state's Principles, Procedures and Standards for the Approval of Private Special Education Programs.
Established in 1960 as part of the Yale Psychiatric Institute, Cedarhurst provides education and support services to day students from local school districts identified as having emotional disturbance (ED) or other health impairment (OHI). Its programs integrate educational and therapeutic interventions in a safe and supportive environment. The School, which is housed in a beautiful historic mansion on Prospect Street, just minutes from the Yale campus, provides a full range of course offerings for Grades 6-12 as well as physical education and electives in language and art.
Cedarhurst is part of Yale Behavioral Health, which operates a diverse range of clinical, rehabilitative and educational services for the Department of Psychiatry. Dr. Michael Hoge, who directs Yale Behavioral Health, serves as the Superintendent of Cedarhurst. He stated that "The strength of the findings during the recent accreditation review can be attributed to the leadership provided by the school’s director, Betsy Donovan, and the senior clinical social worker, Kitty Clemens, as well as to the talented teaching and clinical staff. They have created a very unique, safe, and highly therapeutic environment for adolescents with mental health and educational needs."
Each student at Cedarhurst benefits from an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) to ensure that the unique needs of the student as well as the credit requirements of each student's school district are met. In addition, small class sizes ensure individualized instruction. Students are supported in developing and utilizing the social and emotional skills necessary to succeed academically. All students participate in a comprehensive positive behavioral support program, have a clinical management plan and receive group and individual counseling. Clinical and educational staff collaborates closely with parents and collateral agencies.
The Passage Program at Cedarhurst serves students ages 18-21, identified as ED or OHI, who have completed most or all of their academic credits. It focuses on functional living and vocational skills development for a successful transition to independence. The bulk of Passage Program learning occurs in the community where students participate in paid vocational experiences in competitive work environments. As part of the program, college-bound students have the opportunity to take college classes and receive support in navigating the college environment and developing time management and study skills.
Cedarhurst's mission is to assist in the emotional and social growth necessary to transition students back to their home school district, graduate from high school, attend college, or obtain gainful employment.
The recent re-accreditation report included a number of commendations for Cedarhurst:
"The leadership of the educational program has created a climate and culture of mutual respect among staff and students. Teachers report a collaborative atmosphere where teamwork is valued. The education director is readily available to provide coaching and support to students as well as individual staff members."
"Curriculum areas are diverse, providing appropriate level coursework for students seeking credits required for graduation."
"Teaching staff have a strong grasp of academic content areas and are well supported by the clinical management staff involved in the program."
"Ongoing recognition of student success and accomplishment are a part of the school’s climate and culture as are initiatives developed by the administration to recognize staff."
"Professional development opportunities are numerous and include participation in offerings provided through the Department of Psychiatry at Yale."
"The program employs a full-time special education teacher/coach who provides support, guidance and behavior management assistance for students as well as transition and career counseling/programming."
For more information:
Cedarhurst School; or contact the school’s director, Betsy Donovan, at 203-764-9314.