News Summary
Asheville Academy, a therapeutic school in Weaverville, has announced its voluntary closure after two student suicides occurred within less than a month. The tragic incidents have prompted investigations into the school’s mental health services, revealing serious issues that warranted immediate action. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has taken steps to ensure the safety of vulnerable youth, highlighting the need for reform in therapeutic educational environments. The facility’s closure raises critical discussions about accountability in mental health care for children.
Weaverville, North Carolina – Asheville Academy, a therapeutic school located in Weaverville, has announced its voluntary closure following two tragic student suicides that occurred within less than a month. The first incident was reported on May 3, 2025, when a 13-year-old girl died by suicide. This was followed by the second suicide of a 12-year-old girl on May 29, prompting widespread concern and investigation into the school’s practices.
The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed both incidents, which initiated a response from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS). The NCDHHS began its investigation into Asheville Academy shortly after the first suicide and conducted an in-depth survey of the facility on May 8.
As the investigation progressed, the NCDHHS uncovered serious issues regarding the mental health services provided at the school. A statement from the NCDHHS indicated that the agency found conditions at Asheville Academy to be detrimental to the health and safety of its clients. As a result, on May 27, the NCDHHS ordered an immediate suspension of all future admissions to the facility, citing violations of mental health service licensing rules.
In preparation for the closure, all students were discharged by May 31, and staff associated with the school were also terminated on that day. Although the facility’s licenses were not formally revoked, the removal of all children was deemed necessary for their safety.
This closure comes on the heels of another tragic incident associated with Wilderness Training & Consulting, LLC, the managing member of Asheville Academy. The firm was previously linked to Trails Carolina, a program now defunct after a 12-year-old boy died within 24 hours of his admission in February 2024. This latest series of events has raised serious questions about the overall management and oversight of such therapeutic programs in the region.
In coordination with ongoing investigations following the second suicide, local law enforcement, along with the NCDHHS and the Buncombe County Department of Social Services, has initiated continued assessments of the facility’s operations and the circumstances surrounding the tragic events. Additionally, the facility has taken measures to deactivate its social media accounts, although its website remained operational as of June 3, 2025, providing an unintentional reminder of its past operations.
The decision to close Asheville Academy reflects a growing concern for mental health care standards in specialized therapeutic environments, particularly those catering to vulnerable youth. The incidents at the school serve as a significant indicator for both parents and policymakers regarding the safety and efficacy of such educational institutions.
The NCDHHS confirmed that representatives were present on-site during the investigation, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of children in similar therapeutic environments moving forward. The actions taken following these events highlight the crucial need for ongoing monitoring and reform in the treatment and care of young individuals with mental health challenges.
In light of these events, Asheville Academy’s closure will likely prompt discussions regarding increased scrutiny of therapeutic schools and greater accountability for ensuring student safety and well-being. The closure only underscores the importance of remaining vigilant about mental health service provisions and the inherent responsibilities associated with caring for youth in need.
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Additional Resources
- Spectrum Local News: Asheville Academy Suicide
- ABC News: Asheville Academy Second Suicide
- WYFF4: Asheville Academy Suicides
- Google Search: Asheville Academy suicide
- Wikipedia: Therapeutic School
