School Address: 259595 Turner River Rd Ochopee FL 34141
School District: Collier
County: Collier County
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Big Cypress Wilderness Institute is a residential program located in Ochopee, Florida, that primarily serves as a rehabilitative facility for young men, typically teenagers, who have had encounters with the juvenile justice system. Situated in a remote area within the Big Cypress National Preserve, the institute offers a structured environment focused on education, personal development, and skill-building. The program emphasizes individualized treatment plans, which often include academic education, vocational training, counseling, and outdoor activities designed to build teamwork and self-discipline. The aim is to redirect the residents towards a more positive path, equipping them with the tools needed for successful reintegration into society. The institute’s location within the Big Cypress National Preserve offers a unique setting for nature-based programs that leverage the surrounding environment to teach responsibility, leadership, and environmental stewardship. The facility is typically operated under the management of a private provider in conjunction with the state’s juvenile justice system, maintaining a focus on rehabilitation and reducing recidivism among its participants.