Specialized Education Services, Inc. Opens Private Alternative Education School in Albany, Georgia

SPECIALIZED EDUCATION SERVICES, INC. OPENS PRIVATE ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION SCHOOL IN ALBANY, GEORGIA

Achieve Academy of Dougherty County is now enrolling students for its transitional program

ALBANY, Ga., Aug., 25, 2025 – Specialized Education Services, Inc. (SESI), a division of FullBloom, a premier provider of education services for K-12 students who require additional educational and positive behavioral supports to overcome challenges that impede success in a traditional school setting, today announced the opening of Achieve Academy of Dougherty County in Albany, Georgia. Located at 1800 Massey Drive, the school is SESI’s third alternative education program in the state and the first in the Albany area.

The new school is designed for students in grades 6-12 who have faced behavioral challenges in traditional school settings. It offers a structured, supportive environment that promotes academic progress, personal growth, and social-emotional development, helping students gain the confidence and skills needed to transition successfully back to their home schools.

“Our goal is to help students see what’s possible for their future,” said Daja Thomas, MSW, executive director, Achieve Academy of Dougherty County. “We partner with the school district to welcome students who may find success in our structured environment. Our team meets each learner where they are, with consistent support and clear expectations.”

Students are referred by the district through a waiver or disciplinary hearing process and are enrolled for a minimum placement of nine weeks (or 45 school days), allowing time for academic and behavioral progress before returning to their home school.

“We’re proud to welcome Achieve Academy to our community and to partner in providing students with the structure and support they need to succeed,” said Kenneth Dyer, Dougherty County School System Superintendent. “The program creates a positive pathway for students to make real progress and return to their home schools with renewed confidence and skills.”

The program emphasizes academic achievement, pro-social behavior, and emotional wellness. Teachers and staff work closely with students and families to establish individualized goals around attendance, conduct, and coursework. Related services include counseling, social work, career and technical education, and leadership opportunities tailored to student needs.

“With the right strategies and support, students can return to their home schools ready to engage and achieve,” said Thomas. “We continue to support them even after their transition, offering regular check-ins to help ensure long-term success. Whether a student needs short-term intervention or a fresh start, Achieve Academy provides the tools and encouragement to take their next steps with confidence.”

The school, which can accommodate up to 160 students, will host a community open house in September.

For more information on the program, visit: https://sesischools.com/location/achieve-academy-of-dougherty-county/. 

About Specialized Education Services, Inc.

Specialized Education Services, Inc. (SESI), a division of FullBloom, is a premier provider of education services for K-12 students who require additional educational and behavioral supports to overcome challenges that impede success in a traditional school setting. SESI partners with school districts to run in-district classrooms and private day schools that meet the academic, behavioral, and emotional needs of special and alternative education students with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Emotional Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, and other challenges. Partnering with over 800 school districts nationwide, SESI serves nearly 13,000 students in private day schools and in-district classrooms. SESI is accredited by Cognia.