Alternative EducationAcademic Excellence :

The first legislated State-Approved Alternative Programs (SAAP) were approved in 1988, and the mission, then as now, is to provide viable educational options for students who are experiencing difficulty in the traditional system. Alternative education is designed for students in kindergarten – 21 years old who are at risk of educational failure and meet one of the statute-defined criteria in Minn. Stat. § 124D.68. These criteria include: performing substantially below grade level; at least one year behind in credits for graduation; pregnant or parents; experienced physical or sexual abuse; chemically dependent; mental health problems; English as a second language or limited English proficiency.

State-Approved Alternative Programs are classified as Area Learning Centers (ALC), Alternative Learning Programs (ALP) or Contracted Alternatives. Alternative programs characteristics include: programs and services are often offered year round; programming that has a more hands-on/experiential approach; meets individual students’ learning style/needs; resources to assist with social emotional issues; often include a vocational or career emphasis; independent study options are available for students over the age of 16; many sites offer both day and evening courses.