Alternative Education

Overview

Alternative Education in Maine provides flexible, student-centered learning environments for students who may not thrive in traditional school settings. These programs meet the same academic expectations as all Maine public schools, as defined by the Maine System of Learning Results, while using flexible, innovative, and responsive approaches to remove barriers to learning.

The Maine DOE supports school administrative units (SAUs) and educators in designing, implementing, and sustaining high-quality alternative education programs.

What is Alternative Education in Maine

Alternative Education supports students’ academic, social-emotional, and postsecondary readiness by fostering positive relationships, building on students’ strengths, and engaging students through relevant curricula, experiential and project-based learning, and collaboration among schools, families, and community partners.

Under 20-A MRS §1-B, Alternative Education is defined as:

“a program in which the primary purpose is to provide at-risk students with curricula and assessment in a setting designed to effectively meet the student’s academic, social, and relational needs.”

Alternative education programs offer pathways that support students in remaining enrolled and engaged in school while accessing instruction and supports delivered through responsive and innovative program models.

Alternative education is a general education option and is not a special education placement or a behavioral intervention program.

 

Professional Learning & Events

 

Who Can Access Alternative Education?

Across Maine, School Administrative Units can identify students in their communities who may benefit from alternative education programs. Under 20-A MRS §2-A, a student may be identified based on experiencing one or more of the following educational circumstances:

• Not currently meeting grade promotion or graduation requirements
• Experiencing interruptions in engagement or attendance, including chronic absenteeism
• Facing barriers that affect consistent participation in school
• Experiencing economic challenges, including eligibility for the National School Lunch Program

Many educators and programs use the term “at-promise” to emphasize students’ potential and capacity for success when provided with appropriate supports and opportunities.

Alternative Learning Environments

Under 20-A MRS §1-C Alternative Education learning environments may include, but are not limited to:

• Small class sizes
• Flexible scheduling and instructional needs
• Relevant, engaging, and culturally responsive curricula
• Experiential and project-based learning opportunities
• Social-emotional and relationship-based supports
• Collaboration among schools, families, and community organizations

These environments are designed to build on students’ strengths and talents.

Alternative Education Program Structure & Requirements

School administrative units (SAUs) may establish alternative education programs as part of their elementary or secondary offerings.

Under 20-A MRS §4729, Alternative Education may include, but is not limited to:

• Alignment with Maine’s System of Learning Results (§6209)
• May allow students to attend on a part-time basis
• May operate outside the traditional school day or calendar
• May enroll students in alternative programs outside their SAU with superintendent approval

Educator Certification

Resources