Middle School Alternative Program (MAP)

Grades: 7-8 (6th Grade by Hearing Officer Determination)

The MAP Program at Dowell J. Howard provides a structured, supportive environment for middle school students who require alternative educational placement. Our mission is to help students grow academically, behaviorally, and socially through personalized support and progress monitoring.

Profile of a MAP Student

Students in the MAP Program are placed either through a Hearing Officer due to long-term suspension or as part of an alternative education decision. Additionally, principal-to-principal transfers are available for students who struggle in their home school and require a more tailored approach to learning.

Program Features

• Full-Year Enrollment with a 7-period day, where each class lasts 45 minutes.
• Small class sizes of 10 or fewer students ensure individualized attention.
• Daily Positive Behavior Support with behavior feedback every period and a scheduled Positive Behavior Intervention and Support (PBIS) period.
• Scheduled Movement Breaks to support focus and well-being.
• Student-Selected Learning Block to engage interests and enhance motivation.
• Group Counseling sessions are available to foster social and emotional growth.

Support Systems

• Regular progress monitoring and meetings to track student development.
• Behavior progress feedback is provided every block.
• Collaborative team meetings involving parents, students, and staff.

Referral Process

Referral Form: MAP Referral (SY 25-26)
Point of Contact: Senior Lead Teacher, Caden Thurgood

Enrollment Duration

The Hearing Officer determines enrollment length or, for principal-to-principal transfers, lasts for the remainder of the school year.