Monarch School was a year round, co-ed therapeutic boarding school located in Heron, Montana. It closed abruptly in September, 2017, with its owners citing unsustainable student enrollment as the primary reason. The school served primarily students who had previously participated in therapeutic wilderness programs for teens troubled by depression, substance abuse, addiction to electronics, and various other types of social maladjustment. Students suffering from more serious mental illness were usually referred to more structured institutions. Monarch students moved up a five-step system throughout their stay contingent on their performance in classes, work crews, and group therapy. The students at the school participated in group sessions three to four times a week. Students who graduated from the school academically but continued to require emotional support were helped to settle and find work in nearby Sandpoint, Idaho and participated in post graduate programs at the school.
History
Monarch School, INC was incorporated in Idaho by founder in September 2000. According to The Mission Statement, "The Monarch School exists to provide young adults with the foundation of knowledge and self-awareness to achieve their dreams as healthy human beings". As the school did not have an official campus when it opened, McKenna ran the school out of his North Idaho home. In late 2001, students moved from the Mckenna residence onto the Monarch campus in Heron, Montana. The campus comprised several small dormitories in separate houses, classroom buildings, and arts center, a theater building, administrative and dining facility, horse barn and riding hall, chicken coop, greenhouse, and extensive grounds. The curriculum was divided into periods of academic studies, practical skills development, chores, group and individual therapeutic activities, and recreation. Personal electronics were not allowed, although students used computers for some of their academic work. Face to face interaction, reading, and physical activity were encouraged instead.
Admissions
Monarch School offered year-round enrollment, and cost of tuition was a "flat monthly tuition rate of $7000." Partial financial aid was granted in many cases.
