The Susan Wayne Center of Excellence (SWCE) was established in November of 2008 as the sixth campus of JRI’s Meadowridge Schools. The Susan Wayne Center of Excellence was developed in partnership with the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) and the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). Located in Thompson, Connecticut, The Susan Wayne Center of Excellence offers intensive residential, educational, clinical, milieu, and medical services for up to twenty seven mild-moderately cognitively impaired (45-70 IQ) boys and girls with concurrent behavioral, mental health, and medical issues. We utilize a DBT based, cognitive-behavioral trauma informed clinical model that uses a system of positive incentives to aid our students in developing pro-social coping skills that assist students in achieving their treatment goals.

Students engage in a full academic instruction schedule in their on-site school, five days a week, year round. Leisure activities, sports, and outings as well as on-site activities help to develop social skills. The SWCE offers highly skilled direct-care staff around the clock, as well as teachers, nurses, clinicians, counselors, recreation staff, and a Medical Director (a board-certified psychiatrist). On-site nursing coverage, 7 days a week, supports students diagnosed with significant mental illness and behavioral issues, requiring intensive monitoring and support as well as with medical involvement. Students who might otherwise experience repeated hospitalization and/ or the trauma of multiple failed placements enjoy the benefits of a small, stable, warm, home-like private school setting that provides them with a an intensive educational and treatment experience in which they can begin to achieve their long term goals.

For more information about the Susan Wayne Center of Excellence please contact Program Director Michael Morrill at mmorrill@jri.org or by phone at 860-928-5900

Michael Morrill ~ Director
Susan Wayne Center of Excellence at River Run Academy
Justice Resource Institute
75 Church Street
Thompson, CT 06277
860-928-5900 ext 202
FAX 860-963-0100