The Black Mountain Academy

A Day In The Life

7am

Wake, Personal Hygiene, Breakfast

Morning hygiene followed by breakfast, morning chores, and preparation for school.

8:30 am

Morning Meeting

The academic day starts with the morning meeting in which staff and students practice mindfulness, preview the day’s schedule, set goals, and problem solve any concerns that may have arisen.

9am-12pm

Academic Classes

Students attend classes in groups of less 6-8 to maintain an individualized focus and engaging classroom environment. Each semester the schedule changes based on academic offerings and student course needs.

12-2pm

Lunch/Gym Rotation

Students break out into smaller groups to prepare and eat a healthy lunch and enjoy time at Cheshire Fitness Club. While at the gym, under the supervision of staff, our students implement their individualized exercise plan.

2-4pm

Academic Classes

Continued academic courses with emphasis upon students sustaining focus and engagement throughout the school day.

4-5:30pm

Afternoon Responsibilities & Relaxation

Students attend to any concerns with the cleanliness of their room, utilize leisure and recreation to decompress from school, and participate in preparation of a familystyle meal.

5:30-6:30pm

Dinner

Staff members model healthy eating habits, coach students on social skills related to meal times, and practice gratitude.

6:30-7:30pm

Evening Chores

With the guidance of our staff, students practice vital life skills by attending to after dinner cleanup and evening chores. We also use this time to set ourselves up for success by preparing for the next day.

7:30-9:45pm

Evening Activities

Evenings are planned to support leisure skill development and responsibility. Evening hours typically include homework completion followed by a choice of board games, on campus recreation, social calls with family members, and connecting with peers.

9:45pm

Lights Out

After students complete evening hygiene, they are prompted to find a relaxing way to end their day before lights out.

A Typical Weekend Day at Black Mountain Academy

8:30am

Wake-Up

Morning hygiene followed by special "weekend" breakfast, prepared by staff.

9:30am-12:30pm

Deep Clean (Saturday)

Students work together to maintain personal and shared spaces. Our staff work to teach skills that enhance group problem solving, communication, and attention to detail.

12:30pm

Lunch

Students help plan and prepare some of the meals, thereby building self-confidence and encouraging healthy eating habits. Staff and students plan for afternoon activities.

1:30-4:30pm

Recreational Programming

Each weekend, students participate in an array of activities that range from student planned outings, community service trips, adventures into Asheville, or quite time based on the students needs and preferences.

5:30-6:30pm

Dinner

Students typically plan and prepare special, more elaborate meals on the weekends with their staff members.

6:30-8:45pm

Evening Entertainment

Staff and students often times will use weekend evening to host a “jam session”, work on a project, or watch a movie as a way to recharge and replenish for the week ahead.

8:45-9:45pm

Self Care & Relaxation

Students benefit from quiet time before bed to relax their minds and prepare for sleep. During this time students may enjoy reading a good book or magazine, ask for extra help from their staff members, or connect with a peer.

9:45pm

Hygiene & Lights Out