“Tough Love” Program Benefits Wayward Teens

Re “Troubled Times for ‘Tough Love,’ ” July 13: I graduated from Casa by the Sea last October. When I was sent there in October 2000 I was doing drugs, failing in school and my family life was unhappy. I am now sober, taking honors courses in junior college, have a 4.0 GPA and enjoying every minute I get to spend with my family. Well ... almost every minute.

I feel that your article didn’t fully represent the positive aspects of the World Wide Assn. of Specialty Programs and Schools. It failed to mention the many dedicated staff members and the abundance of resources offered to students and families so they can better themselves, yet it gave full treatment to the few vociferous critics, bitter parents and manipulative teens. After a long battle against the program, I chose to utilize the many resources offered and I am succeeding. I am not a special case; there are many others out there who share my perspective.

Colin DeVane

Huntington Beach