Alternative Learning Pathways for Success (ALPS)

Grades: 9-12

The ALPS (Alternative Learning Pathways for Success) Program is a temporary academic intervention designed for high school students who are credit-deficient and require increased academic structure, support, and opportunities for credit recovery. Students receive teacher-led instruction, individualized academic support, and access to the online learning platform within a smaller learning environment that emphasizes engagement, accountability, consistency, and relationship-building.

ALPS is designed to help students regain academic momentum, rebuild confidence, establish positive academic habits, and recover credits while preparing for a successful transition back to their comprehensive high school. The program focuses on improving graduation outcomes through structured instruction, targeted interventions, and ongoing progress monitoring.

Enrollment is limited to 45 students, with approximately 15 students from each participating high school. Placement is based on academic need and available space. When enrollment requests exceed program capacity, a waiting list is maintained. 

Referral Criteria

Students may be referred to ALPS when they are credit-deficient relative to their expected graduation cohort and demonstrate a need for additional academic support. Referral considerations may include:

• Difficulty earning credits in a traditional high school setting despite previous interventions.
• A need for increased academic structure, monitoring, and support.
• Attendance concerns related to academic frustration or disengagement.
• Benefit from a smaller learning environment focused on academic confidence and progress toward graduation.
• Placement in ALPS is based on academic need and is not a disciplinary assignment.

Enrollment Process

1. A referral may be initiated by a student, parent/guardian, teacher, school counselor, administrator, or other school staff member.
2. The student's records are reviewed by the School Counseling Director and DJHC administration.
3. The DJHC counselor meets with the student and parent/guardian to review the program, expectations, and enrollment process.
4. The School Counseling Director communicates the enrollment decision to the home school.

Placement is determined through a collaborative review process involving the home school and DJHC staff.