Frequently Asked Questions

How does Shepherds Hill Academy succeed in changing the lives of troubled teens?

The unique therapeutic structure of Shepherds Hill Academy consistently provides a safe, loving environment for change and healing. The Shepherds Hill Academy Team provides 24/7 care while maintaining a 5 to 1 student-to-staff ratio. Each team member models the love of Christ, provides adequate teachable moments in life’s lessons, implements accountability measures to enhance character development and ensures your child succeeds in meeting their therapeutic goals.  Shepherds Hill Academy accomplishes this through ongoing individual and group counseling, as well as its many Therapeutic Programs.

Who will care for my child at Shepherds Hill Academy?

Shepherds Hill Academy is comprised of a passionate and highly qualified Administrative Team, a certified Therapeutic Team, a dedicated Boys and Girls Residential Team, and a first class Education Team. When necessary, Shepherds Hill Academy works with outside professionals such as doctors, physical therapists, psychiatrists, social workers, tutors and lay members to help meet your teen’s individual needs.

How do I stay in touch with my child while he or she is at Shepherds Hill Academy?

Upon enrollment we provide you a schedule with specific dates and times which gives you opportunities to communicate with your child. This includes emails and letters, telephone calls, video conferences, and personal visitations.  In addition, you may visit or call our Administrative Team during our office hours to discuss any questions regarding your child.

Is Shepherds Hill Academy State licensed and accept Health Insurance?

Yes, Shepherds Hill Academy is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and is licensed by the State of Georgia through the Department of Human Services (DHS) and accredited through the Georgia Association of Christian Schools. Academics are accredited through the State of Georgia and the Georgia Accrediting Commission.  We do accept certain health insurance. Please ask our Admissions Team to learn more.

Can my child receive a scholarship to attend Shepherds Hill Academy?

Scholarships are sometimes available via the Shepherds Hill Academy scholarship fund. Friends and relatives can also donate toward the Shepherds Hill Academy scholarship fund, which offers tax benefits to the donor/donors. For more information, visit our Financial Options Page.

How does Shepherds Hill Academy provide a safe environment for my child?

Shepherds Hill Academy provides 24/7 direct supervision with a 5 to 1 student-to-staff ratio. Shall a crisis arise, Shepherds Hill Academy has an on-campus Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) that ensures the well-being of each student. The CIT members receive proper emergency training and conduct monthly safety drills with our students. The Residential Team is also thoroughly trained and certified in Crisis Intervention, Behavior Management, First Aid and life saving techniques, CPR and Red Cross Lifeguard water safety. Shepherds Hill Academy has a campus nurse for non-emergency medical needs, and we are 911 accessible. Shepherds Hill Academy is a licensed Outdoor Child Care Program through the Georgia Department of Human Services, and complies with all its rules and regulations.

Will my child receive a quality education at Shepherds Hill Academy?

Shepherds Hill Academy offers a private academy that is fully accredited by the Georgia Accrediting Commission and meets the course requirements for the Georgia Department of Education Curriculum. Our Principal and Education Team give your child individualized attention and works with them to create a class schedule customized to meet their specific academic needs. All of our teachers are state certified and board approved. We also offer SAT and ACT preparation and testing, advanced placement and college preparation courses, and unique extra-curricular activities.

Where is Shepherds Hill Academy located?

Shepherds Hill Academy is in Martin, Georgia, located in the low foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of northeast Georgia. Martin is approximately 85 miles northeast of Atlanta, Georgia.

What religion/denomination does Shepherds Hill Academy adhere to and can my child attend Shepherds Hill Academy if he/she is not a Christian?

Shepherds Hill Academy is an evangelical nondenominational, Bible-believing and Christ honoring ministry. It is not directly affiliated with any one evangelical church or denomination, nor does it receive support from any one denomination. We do not discriminate against the religious preference or race of any student we enroll.

Shepherds Hill Academy does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin (ancestry), or disability in any of its activities or operations. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students. Shepherds Hill Academy admits students of any religion, race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

Does Shepherds Hill Academy Utilize Social Media?

Shepherds Hill Academy is on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Vimeo, and Google+. Please review our Social Media Communication and Comment Policy.  This policy also pertains to our Shepherds Hill Academy Blog and the License to Parent with Trace Embry radio program website and its Social Media sites, as well as shared network sites Best Christian Boarding Schools and Best Therapeutic Schools.