Oklahoma Alternative Education Program
 |
2009 Alternative Education Summer Institute "Growing Graduates" July 30-31, 2009 Meridian Convention Center, Oklahoma City Program (pdf) |
Students served in alternative education programs are at risk for high school failure for a variety of reasons which may include academic deficiency, behavioral difficulties, excessive absences, pregnancy or parenting, adjustment problems, or juvenile justice involvement. Alternative education programs are specifically tailored to meet the needs of students who may be struggling with poverty, substance abuse, family dysfunction, or psychological or physical trauma. Some of the unique features of many alternative programs include:
- Flexible scheduling
- Small class sizes
- Open communication and positive relationships with faculty
- Youth and family involvement in goal-setting
- Learning activities based upon students’ interests and abilities
- Career skills training
- Service learning opportunities
- Innovative instructional techniques
- Assistance with entrance to college or vocational training
Oklahoma’s nationally-recognized alternative education model is unique in its assessment of program effectiveness. The Oklahoma State Department of Education contracts with an external evaluator, the Oklahoma Technical Assistance Center (OTAC), to analyze the data collected from each alternative program in the state. Alternative programs collect the following data for each student prior to entry into the program, during enrollment in the program, and prior to exit from the program:
- Grades
- Courses passed
- Absences
- Disciplinary referrals
- Achievement test scores
- Student satisfaction surveys and suggestions for improvement
At the conclusion of each school year, OTAC analyzes the data from each program and summarizes the results in an annual performance report presented to the Oklahoma State Board of Education.
For
More Information, Contact:
Lisa Pryor, Assistant State Superintendent, Office of Innovation, Support, and Alternative Education, SDE, (405) 522-0276