Clara B Ford Academy SDA

Clara B. Ford Academy is a unique public school academy located in Dearborn Heights, Michigan, specifically designed to serve the educational needs of girls placed in the state’s juvenile justice system. Operated through a partnership between the school district and the Wayne County Department of Child and Family Services, the academy focuses on providing a stable, structured, and supportive learning environment for students who have often experienced significant interruptions in their traditional schooling. The curriculum is tailored to help these young women earn their high school diplomas or GEDs while addressing the social and emotional challenges that frequently accompany their placement.

Beyond traditional academic instruction, the school emphasizes a holistic approach to student success by integrating behavioral support and life-skills training into the daily routine. Because the student body consists of residents of the Clara B. Ford residential treatment facility, the academy operates with a high level of specialized oversight to ensure safety and continuity. By fostering a culture of resilience and personal development, the school aims to equip its students with the academic credentials and self-advocacy skills necessary to transition successfully back into their communities and pursue post-secondary opportunities.