Section 071-128-13 - Developing Alternative ProgramsThe legislation encourages school units to establish alternative programs for dropouts and chronic (habitual) truants. Although the word "encouraged" is used, the primary intent of the legislation is to provide school units with the authority to establish programs for the identified pupils.
When developing alternative programs, local school officials should give consideration to the following questions:
A. Do the programs provide for academic and non-academic pursuits in accordance with the needs of the individual student"B. Do the programs include that which is necessary for meeting curriculum and graduation requirements provided by statute or local board policy"C. Do the programs provide adequate instructional time equivalent to that required for regular school programs"D. Are adequate instructional materials provided"E. Can the programs be evaluated in terms of meeting stated objectives" Alternative programs may be developed and conducted under the direction of local school officials and may become operative within present school facilities during the regular school day. Likewise, alternative programs may be operated under the direction of local school officials outside the regular school facilities and school day. Regardless of which approach is followed, criteria should be developed to determine pupil eligibility for participation in these programs. A description of locally developed alternative programs is to be filed with this Department and the reporting process can be accomplished by using the data collection form. It is possible that alternative programs may already exist or could be developed completely apart from local school jurisdiction. These programs could be operated by private individuals, groups, or agencies. If programs operated outside the school by private individuals, groups, or agencies seem appropriate in meeting the needs of the pupil, criteria for the programs should be developed by the local school officials and they should serve as a guide for the local approval of these programs. Such criteria should include the following:
1. The instruction is provided by qualified individuals. The qualifications might be evidenced by a valid teaching credential, a valid license (trade, etc.) in the area of content being presented, or expertise gained through long experience in the content of the specific program (adult education programs).2. The quality of instruction is equivalent to that provided in the regular public school.3. The facilities housing the program meet all fire safety, health, and sanitation standards.4. The program is designed to provide adequate instructional time to meet its stated objectives.5. There is provision for program evaluation. Any alternative programs developed under this legislation shall be submitted to the local school board for approval.05- 071 C.M.R. ch. 128, § 13