History

Richard Chorney took ownership of Grove School in 1986 and has played a pivotal role in its transformation. Under the Chorneys’ leadership, Grove School became coeducational in 1991, opening its doors to female students for the first time. This period marked significant growth in terms of the school’s facilities and programming, including the introduction of new dormitories, educational spaces, and recreational areas​.

Richard’s and Peter’s vision was to build upon Grove School’s existing therapeutic framework while modernizing the institution to meet evolving educational and clinical needs. During this time period they prioritized enhancing the school’s academic and extracurricular offerings while maintaining its core mission of providing therapeutic support to students with emotional and behavioral challenges. Their leadership has ensured that Grove School continues to thrive as a highly respected therapeutic boarding school, expanding its reach and capacity while staying true to the founding principles​.

Jack Sanford Davis served as the Executive Director of Grove School from 1956 to 1986, taking over ownership from Jess Perlman. He was instrumental in maintaining the school’s foundational values, ensuring that Grove School remained a place where students could find both emotional support and academic success. Davis’s leadership reinforced the school’s reputation as a therapeutic community, balancing personalized therapy with rigorous academic programs​.

Under Jack Davis’s guidance, Grove School continued to evolve in response to the changing needs of its students. He upheld the school’s dedication to fostering emotional well-being through a combination of therapeutic interventions, an emotionally supportive environment, and progressive education. Davis’s 30 years of leadership solidified the school’s standing as a premier therapeutic boarding institution, setting the stage for future growth and development.

Jess Perlman founded Grove School in 1934 as an all boys residential treatment center. His vision focused on providing a structured environment where students with emotional and behavioral challenges could receive support while continuing their education. Perlman was dedicated to creating a nurturing community that balanced academic growth with therapeutic intervention, setting the foundation for Grove’s continued success in helping students overcome their personal difficulties while developing lifelong skills.​

Under Perlman’s leadership, Grove School earned a strong reputation as a therapeutic institution. His work from 1934 until 1956 laid the groundwork for future expansions and innovations, allowing the school to adapt and thrive over time. Even after his departure, the values he instilled in the institution remained central, ensuring that Grove School continued to provide a compassionate, supportive environment for students with complex emotional needs.​