Alternative Education Study and Program Self -Assessment

INFORMATIONAL LETTER NO: 29

POLICY CODE: IHBH

TO: Superintendents of Schools and Alternative Education Directors

FROM: Susan A. Gendron, Commissioner

DATE: October 18, 2007

RE: Alternative Education Study and Program Self -Assessment

Following the 123^rd Legislature’s passage of the “Resolve to Promote Alternative Schools within Existing School Systems,” a committee composed of thirteen legislators and stakeholders was appointed to conduct a review of all existing alternative programs and how they benefit youth at risk in Maine. In December, 2007 a report will be submitted to the Joint Standing Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs with findings and recommendations. The study will look at access to alternative programs, populations of youth served, the contribution programs make toward helping students get prepared for college, career and citizenship, and local, state, and federal funding sources for alternatives in education. Research will be conducted on exemplary state and federal programs and national legislation that supports alternative programs.

The survey (http://www.maine.gov/education/tdae/survey0307.rtf ) is to be filled out by personnel in the alternative education programs. Please have staff return the survey by October 30, 2007.

By way of follow up to this legislative study, there will be an opportunity for programs to participate in the “Program Self -Assessment.” This self- assessment, developed by The Institute for the Study of Students At Risk, Dr. George Smith (as consultant to the Department of Education), Shelley Reed (Truancy, Dropout, and Alternative Education Consultant for the Department of Education) and piloted by the Alternative Education Association of Maine, gives program staff a chance to evaluate what they do and how they do it, as well as identify indicators for continuous improvement and growth. Regional peer conversations will be held to give programs the opportunity to reflect on effective strategies to ensure program growth. Information on these sessions will be sent directly to alternative education program personnel, teachers and directors.

For further information or assistance, please contact Shelley Reed, 624-6637 or at mailto:shelley.reed@maine.gov .