Alternative Education = Common Threads
But the title “Alternative Education” means many things: continuing education for court adjudicated and expelled youth, Advanced Placement students, Special Education students, Arts and Technical Education, or At-Risk students who are chronically truant or potential dropouts. No matter what you mean by it, research indicates that successful Alternative Education Programs have specific common threads which make them successful.
- Structured and supportive classrooms
- Appropriate Curriculum
- Quality, Engaging Instruction
- Multiple and Continuous Assessment
- Positive, Individualized Approach to Discipline
- Quality Professional Development
- District Support
- Family and Community Involvement
- Clearly Identified Student Outcomes
These standards represent essential elements of effective programs critical to meeting the ultimate goal of alternative education: a successful transition to adult life. The video and other materials linked below provide an overview of current research and best practice in alternative education today.
