Residential Program | Hanna Academy

Overview

Residential Program at Hanna Academy

Hanna Academy’s residential program offers a supportive, structured environment for students who live too far to commute daily. As part of our trauma-informed system of care, the program provides consistent academic, emotional, and social support—both in and outside the classroom.

Approved by the California Department of Education in 2024, the program serves referred students with active IEPs who need a residential setting to thrive.

Exterior view of a Hanna Academy campus building with mountains in the background.

More Than a Place to Stay

Students live in shared houses on our beautiful Sonoma campus, supported by staff at a 1:6 ratio. With built-in recreation, case management, and counseling, the residential program extends Hanna’s whole-student model beyond the school day.

Referred Placement Only

To be eligible, students must:

Have an active IEP
Be referred by their current school district

We do not accept direct applications.

Students playing a board game together in a lounge.

Residential Recreation

Connecting Through Fun

Recreation at Hanna isn’t an afterthought—it’s an intentional part of how we build belonging.

Hanna’s residential program integrates recreation as a key part of our whole-student system of care. On campus, students enjoy structured and spontaneous ways to move, create, and connect—whether it’s pickup soccer, arcade tournaments in the Rec Center, or water balloon games in the sun. Off campus, students explore the outdoors, attend local games, or take part in activities like mini golf and go karting. Recreation helps our students build confidence, community, and joy—which is exactly the point.

Download the Recreation Brochure

Students playing pool billiards in recreation space.

Student shooting a basketball during gym activity.

Swimming pool facility on Hanna Academy campus.

Retro arcade game setup in student common area.

What to Expect

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about our residential program, answered.

Is the classroom co-ed and grouped by age?

Yes. Students in grades 9–12 are scheduled as 9/10 or 11/12 cohorts when possible, though some mixed-age classes occur depending on credit needs. All classes are co-ed.

Will my student have a roommate?

Possibly. Room sharing is based on student numbers, personality match, behavior scores, and seniority. Houses are separated by gender identity.

Can my student tour before enrolling?

Yes. While shadow days aren’t offered, tours are strongly encouraged (in-person or virtual) and serve as informal interviews.

Is there a summer program?

Yes. Hanna Academy offers Extended School Year (ESY) for students at risk of academic or social-emotional regression.

Can students go home for breaks or weekends?

Possibly. Home visits are determined by IEP and therapeutic plans. Overnight check-outs are not standard. Day outings with family are often allowed based on team recommendation.

How often can families visit or call?

Families can visit regularly. Phone calls are encouraged—students check in personal phones for the first 30 days but can use house lines or scheduled calls. After that, personal devices may be used freely.

How long is the program?

It depends. Each student’s placement is reviewed after 30 days, and duration is based on IEP goals and progress. Some stay a few months; others remain for years.

Can a student leave if the placement isn’t a fit?

Yes. Hanna will issue a 20-day notice if we feel it’s not a fit. Families and districts may also withdraw at any time. We aim to be a good match and value honesty.

Can I review your school’s expectations?

Yes. Our student handbook is available on our resources page.

Student Life

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Living and Learning, Together