New York State
Alternative Education Association

Alternative Programs in New York State

Nassau BOCES - Department of Instructional Programs and Alternative Schools —http://www.nassauboces.org The Program of Alternative Comprehensive Education (P.A.C.E.) is an alternative high school for teenagers who are disaffected with the traditional high school setting but have the ability to earn their diplomas. A full academic program of courses to meet Regents standards is provided, as is the opportunity to pursue an occupational education sequence.

Within the rural setting at the BOCES Outdoor Education site at Brookville, students receive support and guidance in developing better self-esteem, improving their academic performance and planning for the future. The highly structured program emphasizes small classes and individualized instruction. Most graduates pursue post-secondary education. The home school upon completion of the required units of study and the recommendation of the Nassau BOCES administration awards credits and a diploma.

P.A.C.E. offers early intervention for at-risk first-time ninth graders. These students could come directly from a middle school having been identified as being at risk for failure in the high school, or have been unable to “move” to the ninth grade in the Junior High setting. The focus is to provide a solid start in high school and to address the academic and behavioral needs of students who are in a pattern of failure. Starting with a change in environment, emphasis will be on skill building, behavior modification, and developing motivation and self-esteem. A counseling component will be included. At the end of the school year, the student’s progress will be reviewed for placement for the following school year. The selected students will attend classes at the Nassau BOCES facility located in Greenvale.

The Positive Alternative Twilight High School (PATHS) serves a consortium of four school districts—Island Trees, Plainedge, Seaford and Wantagh. It provides an alternative setting during evening hours for students who have not succeeded in the traditional educational system. PATHS equips teenagers with the necessary tools to return successfully to their home high schools, as well as help them prepare for post-secondary education or employment. Classes meet Monday through Friday from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Students are awarded diplomas by their home schools and attend their home school graduations.

 Teenage Parenting Program (TAP) enables pregnant and parenting teens to continue their high school education and helps them become responsible, competent mothers. Strong academic programs are supplemented with appropriate electives that cater to students’ needs, while supporting their efforts to become independent, self-sufficient young adults who are confident in their ability to succeed.

Support services built into the program emphasize counseling, comprehensive health education, practical living skills, employability skills and peer support. Collaboratives with community service organizations and local hospitals enhance instruction. An on-site nursery provides childcare during the school day and gives young mothers the opportunity to learn hands-on parenting skills under the supervision of registered nurses, LPNs and child care aides.

The Cultural Arts Center is Long Island’s public high school for the performing and visual arts. For students in grades 9–12, it offers professional training by recognized artists who are experienced master teachers. Students can major in dance, drama, instrumental and vocal music, musical theater, playwriting, visual arts or theater technology at this specially designed complex located in Syosset.

The full-day arts high school provides students with an arts and academic program to meet the requirements for a high school diploma. Students benefit from the intensive arts instruction and have extra time for additional courses in their majors. An Arts-only program offers a half-day of professional arts training to students who take academic courses at their home high schools.

A specialized curriculum is designed to prepare students to pursue professional careers in one of the arts disciplines. Many courses are certified for college credit, and most students graduate with advanced credits and full or partial scholarships to colleges or conservatories. Student acceptance is based upon successful completion of an audition and interview. The Center includes professionally equipped theater, dance and art studios as well as individual practice rooms.

English Literacy Alternative Program (ELAP)Nassau BOCES is pleased to offer a program designed to meet the needs of limited English proficient (LEP) students with limited or interrupted formal education. Students between the ages of 14 and 18 who are new to the U.S. and have little or no formal education are welcome in the ELAP program. Housed at the Seaford Avenue School, the ELAP program provides students with instruction in basic literacy and numeracy skills. Students will develop English skills through thematic units focusing on content area topics. A liaison is available to meet with school staff, students and families to answer any questions about the program.

Program Goals:

• To provide a structured, safe place where youth can come during the hours of suspension
• To provide supervision and guidance by positive role models and mentors who are highly qualified, motivated, and dedicated to making a difference in the lives of high-risk youth
• To provide a Family Component that enables each member to take responsibility for their part in the process and work together to strengthening the family unit
• To partner with schools for the success of our youth
Program Components:

• Skill-building workshops in the area of anger management, conflict resolution, drug education, and other challenges facing our youth
• Tutoring and academic support
• Community service projects and the opportunity to enhance their social responsibility and leadership skills
• Educational field trips that provide awareness opportunities that strive to assist them in making healthier choices for their future (probation, courts, jail, treatment facilities)
• Group, Individual, and Family Counseling sessions, assisting youth and their families in personal growth and the opportunity to face and work on a variety of issues
• Resources and referrals from outside agencies to assist with additional needs of youth (treatment, psychiatric)