Alternative Education
The Alternative Education program at Dowell J. Howard provides a range of tailored educational opportunities for students in grades 7-12 who face unique academic, social, or behavioral challenges. Through programs such as MAP, ALPS, LINKS, ISAEP, GRIT, and Night School, Dowell J. Howard offers a supportive environment with small class sizes, personalized learning options, and progress monitoring. The Middle School Alternative Program (MAP) serves students in grades 7-8, with placement typically determined by a Hearing Officer, focusing on behavioral support and positive intervention. The ALPS program assists high school juniors and seniors who benefit from a low-distraction setting, small classes, and additional support in a more structured environment.
For high school students facing long-term suspensions, LINKS offers structured support through both in-person and virtual formats, with an emphasis on counseling and life skills. The ISAEP program, geared toward GED candidates aged 16 and above, combines academic support with work experience. GRIT, designed for rising 9th graders, and Night School provide flexible, blended learning options for students who need an alternative to traditional schedules due to life circumstances or specific personal challenges. These programs collectively offer a safe, customized, and constructive learning experience to help students succeed beyond the conventional classroom setting.