Our Services

Dooley Center for Alternative Education

Building Strong Foundations for the Future

At the Dooley Center for Alternative Education, we understand that education is a journey, and sometimes that journey can take unexpected turns. Our school is dedicated to serving middle and high school students from Henrico, Hanover, and the City of Richmond who have experienced disruptions in their education due to suspension or expulsion, or who are returning from juvenile justice custody.

We provide a pathway for students to reintegrate into the educational system, along with the tools and support to succeed.

All students are placed with us by their public schools, at no cost to families. Contact our Admissions team for more information.

Visit the Dooley Center for Alternative Education

Schedule a personal tour with our Admissions team to learn more about our program.

Our Approach

We offer a flexible curriculum that combines direct instruction with online learning, enabling students to make up missed assignments and progress at their own pace. Our dedicated staff, trained in Trauma-Informed Care, provide mentorship, guidance, and a positive environment for growth and learning.

Career and Transition Services

In addition to academic and therapeutic support, our students have access to Career and Transition Services (CATS) to help them prepare for life after graduation. Our CATS program offers:

Job readiness training and vocational skills development
Hands-on learning experiences in real-world settings
Partnerships with local businesses for internships and job placements
Assistance with college and career planning

Our goal is to help students create a roadmap toward stability and independence, so that they can succeed beyond the classroom.

Family Involvement and Support

Family involvement is crucial to each student’s success, which is why we work closely with families and provide assistance throughout the educational process. Our support services include:

Regular communication and progress updates
Family counseling and support services
Collaboration with community resources

Why Choose Us?

Choosing the Dooley Center for Alternative Education means choosing a supportive and understanding environment for your child’s education. We prioritize safety and structure to help students feel secure as they learn. On-staff counselors work with each student individually to help them build resilience, make positive decisions, and achieve personal goals.

Location & Hours

The Dooley Center for Alternative Education is located on the St. Joseph’s Villa campus, which spans 82 beautifully landscaped acres. Students have access to the Villa’s Learning & Therapy Garden, gymnasium, playgrounds, vocational training centers, and more.

Regular school hours are Monday-Friday, 8:00am-3:00pm, with early dismissal at 12:30pm on Wednesdays. Extended school year services are also available.

Download the 2026-2027 School Calendar

Admissions Steps

Disciplinary letter received (referral) from school system.
Family makes contact with St. Joseph’s Villa Admissions Office to set orientation.
Orientation and registration packet completed and start date set.

Download the 2026-27 Student-Parent Handbook