Alternative education is a term that refers to several different types of schools and programs used across the country. These programs serve to help students who do not have their needs met through traditional education options. Some students may face bullying at school and begin skipping classes, but the student population may also include those who are in danger of dropping out of school and those who have disorders or conditions that keep them from taking classes in a normal classroom. It’s important to look at some of the top programs available before considering an alternative path for your child.
Online Programs
When you think about online education programs, you might think about those that college students take, but several states now offer online courses as an alternative to a traditional high school program. Students taking these classes will still need to complete all the requirements in the state for graduating high school. They often take classes on English, math, life sciences, history and government, but they may also take classes on psychology, creative writing and other unique subjects. These programs are great for those who feel bullied or threatened in high school.
School Within-A-School
One effective type of alternative schooling is something called a school within-a-school. This refers to the way in which some schools now have separate classrooms available for students who have issues that prevent them from being around other students. Many urban schools use these classrooms for students who have violent tendencies or criminal records and those who frighten other students. A school within-a-school is also a good option for students who have academic problems and cannot keep up with their peers. It allows for more individualized learning because teachers work with a much smaller number of students every day.
Second-Chance School
The National Dropout Prevention Center includes second-chance schools on the list of alternative education programs. According to this organization, a second-chance school is a type of school that offers opportunities for students who would otherwise wind up in jail, prison or a detention center. It points out that many of the students enrolled in these programs wind up there because they go before a judge and the judge rules that going back to school is their last option before jail. Second-chance schools also accept students that other schools expelled because of cheating, bullying, violence and other actions.
Home Schooling
Home schooling is yet another alternative to a traditional school. Several states allow parents to home school their children without contacting the school first, but other states ask that parents inform the government of their intentions to educate their children at home. There are also a number of states that require parents follow a set guideline, that children take the same classes they would in a traditional school and that they go through an assessment at least once a year. Those assessments ensure that the children can keep up with their peers and that they actually gain knowledge and learn skills in that program.
Not everyone loves going to school as much as their peers. Some kids face persecution because of their religious beliefs, bullying from other students and behavioral disorders that make it hard for them to concentrate. Alternative education programs, including second-chance schools, a school within-a-school, online programs and home schooling programs, give those students more options.
