Second Chance

WHO WE ARE

Second Chance Arlington is a restorative justice education program for Arlington middle and high school students to help them avoid alcohol, drugs, and certain other illegal substances. It is not treatment or therapy. Students showing signs of early substance use will benefit most from attending. Participation is free for Arlington middle and high school students.

Students found under the influence or in possession of illegal substances may be referred to Second Chance by Arlington Public Schools (APS) in lieu of school suspension, by the Arlington County Juvenile Court System in lieu of appearing in court, or by parents/guardians concerned their teen might be using substances. Students can also self-refer. In all instances, attendance is confidential and an excused school absence.

Second Chance Arlington is a collaborative community effort that includes students, parents/guardians, school administrators, police, the juvenile justice system, Commonwealth’s Attorney, and non-profit partners. It is a program of the Arlington Foundation for Families and Youth (formerly known as the Arlington Partnership for Children, Youth and Families Foundation).

Teen Testimonials:

"Second Chance taught me to think before acting."

"Second Chance opened my eyes to the reality of drug use and helped me learn more."

"I wish they'd taught me this at school."

"I learned how to say "no" at Second Chance."

"Second Chance taught me how my decisions now can change my future."

"Going to Second Chance helped me realize who I was again."

"What I found most valuable is how we actually feel in our hearts and that not everything is about substances."

"Drugs don’t value who you are."

"I learned how drugs or decisions you make in general can affect you long term."

Parent Testimonials

"Second Chance is an opportunity for teens to get back on the right track."

"A good program with useful information. It forces you to talk to your teen about their behavior, even if just for a bit."

"Second Chance gives teens a wake-up call and a chance to start over by making better decisions."

"Excellent program that educates teens about the consequences of their actions."

"It makes them understand clearly how bad it is and how they can change."

"Second Chance is a thorough program that aims to really help."

"How lucky we are to be in Arlington and a program like this that is allowing a change in direction in our child’s future."

"The invaluable information. I’m grateful that this program is available."

"I am grateful for this program. I have learned a lot, including substance abuse is actually bigger problem than I thought it would be."