Rise above.
Achieve your goals.
We're a community alternative to suspension and expulsion, helping students in grades 7–12 get back on track for graduation and whatever comes next.
An alternative path to success
The mission of the Harrison County Youth Advocacy Center shall be to provide an alternative educational opportunity to at-risk children who have been referred to the Youth Advocacy Center facility by the traditional educational institutions in the local communities. It will also include a focus on developing positive behaviors through skill acquisition and social learning.
Why the Phoenix?
Our mascot, chosen by our students, is the Phoenix. We believe all our students can rise above the circumstances that have held them back and achieve their goals. The Phoenix rising from the ashes represents the success our students will have.
Programs that meet students where they are
The Harrison County Youth Advocacy Center is a community collaborative alternative to suspension and expulsion, and an alternative placement for High School Equivalency (HSE) students.
Suspension & Expulsion Programs
A nontraditional approach to learning for students in grades 7–12 who haven't found success in the traditional setting. Students keep earning credit for work from their home school.
High School Equivalency
A High School Equivalency Test program for high school students who are not succeeding in their traditional classes and are in danger of missing graduation requirements.
Credit Recovery
Students who are short credits because of a failed class can retake the course at their own pace.
Our goal is to motivate students to return to their home school or pursue an alternative route to educational or vocational success. We screen for whole-health needs and build individualized goals around each student's education and community living needs, so they leave with the tools to be model citizens.
Evidence-based practices
We use Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), an evidence-based practice that works for students who benefit from mentoring relationships with adults, motivational strategies, and skill building. Students learn appropriate behaviors through instruction, practice, feedback, and encouragement, and every plan is driven by data.
Our groups focus on social-emotional learning (SEL), teaching the core skills tied to academic, vocational and social success. We also use trauma-informed and restorative justice principles to address discipline.
Students who need a higher or lower level of services get advocacy and help meeting their individual needs.
Our Phoenix family
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Need help with food, housing or other basics?
We keep a list of local programs for Harrison County families. See Family Resources