Schedule Overview

Morning: Setting the Foundation

Students start their day with a calm and supportive morning transition, allowing time to adjust, check in with staff, and prepare for learning. Movement-based activities like stretching, walking, or yoga help regulate energy levels and set a positive tone for the day.

Academic Learning & Hands-On Exploration

Our classroom environment is designed to accommodate individualized instruction, ensuring students receive the right level of challenge and support. Lessons are broken into manageable blocks with built-in breaks to help students stay engaged. Afternoons often include experiential learning—interactive projects, nature-based education, and creative activities that bring academics to life.

Traditional red chili peppers hanging outside a building, representing the culture of New Mexico
Expansive red campus landscape in New Mexico, reflecting the natural beauty of Del Rio Academy’s surroundings

Afternoon: Active Learning & Skill Development

Beyond the classroom, students take part in therapeutic skill-building experiences that encourage social engagement, personal responsibility, and hands-on learning. Activities may include:

  • Animal care and time spent in outdoor environments

  • Biking, hiking, or nature walks to build confidence and support self-regulation

  • Group discussions that support communication, problem-solving, and social growth

Teacher assisting a student with a writing assignment in a classroom at Del Rio Academy
New Mexico desert landscape at sunset, featuring layered mesas and a distant mountain peak.

Evening: Reflection & Relaxation

The transition to evening includes calming activities like reading, quiet games, or creative projects, helping students wind down from the day. Dinner is served in a family-style setting, fostering connection and social engagement. As bedtime approaches, structured routines and soothing activities ensure a peaceful close to the day.

Weekends: Adventure & Personal Growth

Student riding a bicycle on a dirt path, engaging in outdoor recreation at Del Rio Academy

Weekends provide an opportunity for extended outdoor exploration, creative enrichment, and personal downtime. Students may take part in hiking, biking, off-campus experiences, or independent activities that encourage self-care and independence.

Flexibility for Individual Needs

While the daily schedule provides structure, it also allows room for individualized support, including:

  • One-on-one academic or therapeutic sessions

  • Family therapy or psychiatrist appointments

  • Family visits as part of the student’s overall plan

Every student’s experience at Del Rio Academy is designed to be structured yet adaptable, ensuring the right balance of learning, social development, and emotional regulation throughout their day.

Students participating in a group parachute activity, promoting teamwork and engagement

In Their Words

“For years, my son struggled with school-based anxiety and avoidance, feeling defeated before he even started. At Del Rio Academy, the individualized support and compassionate approach changed everything. For the first time, he’s not just engaging in learning, he’s experiencing real success.” - Kathy A., Parent

Student leading a horse, engaging in an experiential learning activity
Students hiking through a scenic trail as part of an outdoor adventure program