Strong Relationships
Strong relationships are the heart of developing men of character. Our preceptors serve as role models and mentors, walking alongside each young man as he learns to lead with integrity, responsibility, and respect. By knowing our students deeply and partnering with families, we provide the consistent guidance and encouragement needed to help them grow into their best selves. These bonds shape not only academic success, but also the character, resilience, and leadership that last a lifetime.
Personalized Year-Round Academics
Vertus’ innovative school model blends technology, small teacher-led classes, and a year-round calendar to ensure every student gets the support he needs to succeed. This approach helps young men close learning gaps, build essential skills, and stay on track toward earning their New York State Regents diploma.
Beyond core academics, students engage in dynamic electives and hands-on learning opportunities that prepare them for the real world. Courses such as Music Production, Barbering, and E-Sports/Gaming tap into students’ passions while teaching discipline, creativity, and collaboration. Along with a wide range of clubs and sports, these experiences keep students motivated, challenged, and excited to learn all year long.
Character Education
We are intentional about teaching students to grow into young men of character. Every student takes part in a daily character development classes where our Character Curriculum comes to life. In these seminars, students explore our three core virtues—Courage, Leadership, and Responsibility—through meaningful dialogue, circle protocol, and team-building activities. Each young man sets personal goals, choosing the character strengths he wants to strengthen and practice.
Career Preparation
After graduation, each student chooses the path that is right for him: college, technical training, joining the military, or starting a career. Vertus has a variety of partnerships that allow students to be better prepared for whatever path they choose. We partner with Monroe Community College and Bryant and Stratton which allow for students to begin earning college credit, at no cost to the family, while still in high school. While at Vertus, students also have an opportunity to visit the local colleges in the area, meet with admission representatives from schools outside the immediate area, and participate in our annual Job Fair. The Job Fair brings together military recruiters and employers from various companies that focus on the trades along with other local service agencies. Students can apply for positions on the spot and, with the help of our counseling staff, prepare for interviews that may result.
Students will Graduate Prepared for Success
A student that completes their education at Vertus is ready for the next step. Working hard to develop character and meet the NYS academic requirements for a Regents diploma allows students to build habits that will benefit them in whatever they choose to do. The relationships that they have built guarantee that there is a Vertus staff member to support them throughout their first post-secondary year. In the words of our Creed, which we recite daily, they will forever be “Their Bothers’ Keeper, Leaders of Character, and most importantly, Vertus Men.”