Debra L. Randall, Director
(716) 821-7071
This division provides direct instruction and support services to help districts meet the needs of a variety of at-risk student populations in an environment which will allow students the opportunity to be successful. Understanding that there exists no one environment that will allow for success, several have been developed.
There are a variety of options a district has in considering alternative education for its students:
Alternative High School (grades 9-12)
This program offers high school students in need of an alternative educational setting the opportunity to earn a high school diploma. This is a full-time, academically-oriented program meeting all State Education Department requirements for a high school diploma.
Work Study (OSP) (grades 9-12)
This program is for students whose needs are not met in a traditional high school setting. OSP serves students in grades 9 through 12 in a modified academic/work experience program. Students who continue through 11th and 12th grade may attend a BOCES career and technical education program as part of their alternative program. This program meets all State Education Department requirements for a high school diploma.
Alternative Middle School (grades 7-8)
This program is designed to meet the academic and social needs of 7th and 8th graders having difficulty succeeding in a traditional middle or junior high school setting. The goal of the program is to have the student re-enter regular programs at the 9th grade level with acceptable social and academic skills.
Teen Parenting
Pregnant and parenting teens are provided the opportunity to complete their education in this full-day alternative program. Students in this program are integrated into the Alternative High School.
Center for Change/Family Support Center
A counseling support program serving students and families of the Alternative Education programs.
