History

Historical Overview  |  Detailed History

In 1971, Positive Education Program was created in consultation with area school districts to help the schools serve their most challenging students. Initially, PEP functioned as a consulting organization, but quickly it became apparent that districts needed specialized centers dedicated to meeting the educational needs of their most troubled and troubling students. In 1975, PEP opened its first Day Treatment Center providing a blended educational and mental health program. In 1976, PEP opened its first Early Childhood Center. Today, PEP operates ten Day Treatment Centers, two Early Childhood Centers, Day Care Plus, Help Me Grow, Connections, Tapestry, and PEP Assist.

PEP has grown in size and reputation. Locally and nationally, PEP has been recognized for its excellent programming. In 1996, the U.S. Department of Education identified PEP’s Day Treatment Centers as one of six model special education programs in the country. In 2000, the U.S. Departments of Education and Justice recognized PEP for being an example of a model program providing intensive interventions to troubled students. In 2003, Positive Education Program won the Woodruff Prize, a local honor bestowed upon an agency demonstrating excellence in mental health care.