The Alternative High School Program (AHS) began in
September 1998.
The program consisted of 10 students, one teacher and
one paraprofessional. On
the average the program now services between 15 to 20 students
per year. Subjects offered in the program include
English, Global Studies, U.S. History, Business classes,
Sociology, Contemporary Issues, and various
individualized courses based on student’s need. These classes are
offered in a self-contained classroom. All other subject
areas (i.e.: Math,Science, Art, Physical Education) are
offered in the mainstream.
In 1999, the quarter credit
point grading system was introduced. This system is used to
empower each student to have more controls over their
grades.
It was determined that allowing
students to earn a ¼ credit every 10 weeks would afford
several benefits.
First, students would then be able to transfer into the
Alternative Program throughout the year and be able to receive
some credit, regardless of the lateness of the year. Secondly these
students would be held to a higher level of responsibility, as
they would no longer be able to fail 2 quarters and retrieve
class credit later. Lastly it provides for
shorter-term positive reinforcement. Students are rewarded
every 10 weeks with credit towards their ultimate goal of a
high school diploma.
Many of our students will have quarters through out the
year when their lives become unmanageable. Using the quarter
credit system they can “start fresh” every 10 weeks.
To
determine grades a point
system is used. At the beginning
of each quarter, in every class, students set a desired grade
goal for that class.
Assignments are given a point value and upon completion
of the assignments students receive the designated
points. Each
student receives points for attendance as well as work
produced. Points
papers are addressed at the beginning of each class and
students are directed towards their progress and attendance
daily.
The Alternative English curriculum was developed in
conjunction with the HFL English department during the summers
of 1999 and 2000 and continues to be revised and
enriched. The
curriculum is based on 10 week mini courses. Each mini course
includes the NYS standards and is adapted to include some
aspect of real life learning through literature. Hands on activities and
fieldtrips are included as often as possible. Collins's writing curriculum has been introduced and continues to guide the writing program.
All other subject areas including business and history
classes follow the NYS guidelines.
Each year the Alternative program celebrates the
students accomplishments with the Alternative Banquet.
Graduating seniors receive a memory box and write "wills" to
leave the non graduates. Families, friends and favorite
teachers from the mainstream are invited to help us
recognize achievements.
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