The philosophy of Cross Creek Programs is to offer each student a graphic basis for making responsible choices in the future.  Students are required to maintain high standards.  Appropriate behavior is encouraged, reinforced and rewarded.  Poor behavior brings immediate consequences.  The teens follow a vigorous daily schedule and a firm set of rules.  They attend individual and group therapy, seminars for both student and parent.  The academic program is geared for a high school diploma in most cases.

Cross Creek operates on a merit system that requires each student to earn status and privileges through a multi-level program based on positive behavior.  Each level of the program offers additional privileges, motivating the student to work harder.  The program becomes a testing ground to ascertain each student’s level of commitment toward changing past negative behaviors.

As students advance in the program additional opportunities and responsibilities are received such as: off ground activities, community service, mentoring, sports, parent visits and home visits.