Santa Rosa Youth Academy (SRYA) is a low- and moderate-risk program that is located in the Blackwater National Forest.  The program provides gender-specific programming for adjudicated delinquent males 14 to 18 years of age. Program has an average length of stay of 4 to 6 months for low-risk, and 6 to 9 months for the moderate-risk level. Youth with specialized mental health needs or considered an escape risk (the facility is not fence secure) are not suitable for this program.

Behavior Health Overlay Services (BHOS) are provided. SRYA offers a separate track for trauma survivors, including child abuse and neglect, exposure to domestic violence and unresolved traumatic grief. Trauma-focused therapy is coordinated by a licensed mental health professional with over 20 years experience in trauma recovery.

Youth also will be provided CPR/First Aid Certification. Youth must be able to participate in outdoor activities, community service projects and utilize class “A” tools (axes, pitchforks, shovels etc.). Youth live, learn and work in an environment that provides them the opportunity to be creative and develop many basic skills that could not be learned in other environments. The program reflects Restorative Justice philosophies and incorporates treatment modalities to address delinquent and social behavior. Evidence-based modalities include: Male Trauma Recovery Empowerment Model (MTREM), Cannabis Youth Treatment (CYT), Matrix, Thinking for a Change (T4C), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Program will provide clothing. Youth should bring sneakers.

Santa Rosa Youth Academy (school number 570205) is a Type 3 program offering English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and one elective course. The elective course is typically used to provide additional reading assistance to needy students or vocational training.

Education and vocational services are provided through the Santa Rosa County School District. Vocational opportunities include: Carpentry, Horticulture and Food Handling.