[5] The facility is located in Ochoco National Forest between the Central Oregon cities of Prineville and Mitchell and could accommodate 110 individuals.

[9] In March 1998, four ex-employees and two parents alleged that high-risk students attending Mount Bachelor Academy were deprived of sleep, subjected to obscenity-laced tirades and forced to work in near-freezing temperatures overnight.

The inspectors report stated the school had "a lot of outdoor activities, a seasoned staff and a program that requires parents to be involved.

"[15] On March 31, 2009, the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) sends "confusing" letter to parents of students at MBA suggesting they prepare to move their children out of the school.

A Time online article appears to imply that the U.S. Supreme Court case, Forest Grove v. TA, is related to the investigation being conducted by the DHS.

[16][17] On November 3, 2009, the Oregon Department of Human Services suspended MBA's operating license and ordered the school's temporary closure due to findings of child abuse and neglect.

The Crook County Sheriff's Office Operations Commander reported that DHS had not made him aware of their [7 month long] investigation - something he felt was out of the ordinary.

[20] In December 2009, MBA requested a hearing with Oregon officials to contest the schools suspended license and closure.

[21] In December 2009, MBA executive director Sharon Bitz filed a legal suit contesting the charges made against her.

[21] In April 2010, Executive Director Sharon Bitz and representatives of MBA submitted claims against the state for damages resulting from the DHS actions.

[21] In October 2010, the state of Oregon withdrew its orders and actions against MBA in return for recognition that DHS had a "reasonable" basis to investigate the charges.

'"[21] DHS director of children, adults and families, Erinn Kelley-Siel made the following statement:[21] Aspen Education Group President, Phil Herschman made the following statements:[21] In July 2011, some former students of the school sued the school and the two companies that owned it, claiming intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress, as well as other torts.

[23] In November 2011, another suit was filed by an additional 11 students, alleging humiliation, physical and sexual[clarification needed] and seeking $23 million in damages.

All young people are good at heart," he added, "and these are kids that need another chance, and we help them realize that inside they are really incredible, beautiful human beings.

"[28] Lifesteps were described as learning about truth and honesty and progressing toward discovering "real" friends, goals and dreams and finally with contributing to society.