Students in new Alternative Education Program already show significant progress
by Joan Tucker and Corey Peña
In the Fall 2022 semester, Stockbridge Community Schools (SCS) started a new and successful alternative education program. Prior to that, the school system had an online component for alternative ed., but it wasn’t as successful for some students compared to in-person learning. With increased monies from COVID relief, this past fall SCS was able to initiate a new alternative education program housed in Gregory’s former Howlett Elementary School.
The program is designed to help at-risk students get back on track. Most students who chose to attend alternative education this year did so because they were at risk of dropping out or not graduating on time.
The Panther Alternative for Student Success (PASS) Program uses the Michigan Merit Curriculum to help students attain 18 core credits along with their elective credits. With a smaller class size, unique class structure, and increased counseling and emotional support, students are making gains. They are more engaged and have improved attitudes, academic commitment, and better overall behavior. According to Meghan Kunzelman, the program director, the seniors are very focused on graduating with their class.
An important part of student learning involves real-life skills. In regularly scheduled morning groups, students in the alternative education program talk about what it means to be a good student and a contributing member of society. Those who are working or will work after they graduate learn how to interview and problem-solve issues occurring within the workplace. Good work ethics are emphasized. Often, students can earn credit for work-based learning.
On February 14, retired teacher Corey Peña spoke with a group of students, primarily seniors, and each emphatically praised both instructors—Kunzelman and Chris Conley—as well as the program.
During her visit, Peña noted the relaxed atmosphere and students working at their own pace on individual assignments. Meanwhile, another group was receiving direct math instruction in Consumer Math (a practical class focused on personal finance, budget, and managing debt) with Kunzelman in another room. One senior student in Conley’s group stated, “[The instructors] really care about us and take the time to explain things in a way that we can understand what we are learning.” Others appreciated the time to catch up, get a lot of one-on-one help, and improve their chances of getting their diploma.
Conley has really enjoyed being able to get to know each student personally, so he can target what they need. But, make no mistake, Conley will “stay on you” (as one student noted) because he wants his students to know he cares about them and their success.
When asked how the program measures success, Kunzelman explained that this past semester, students achieved an overall higher credit recovery rate (partial credit work completed to attain the full credit) and an overall higher credit percentage than in the fall of 2021.
On a personal level, one of the program’s students recently achieved his goal of returning to the Jr./Sr. High School. Well done students and staff!
