What's an Alternative School?

I've heard the term 'alternative school' tossed around a bit lately and I'm curious as to what it means. Is it another path I could consider instead of traditional high school? What are the benefits of attending such a school? Do colleges view them differently?

Alternative schools often cater to nontraditional learners or students who may not have had success in the typical public school system. These schools usually create personalized and flexible learning environments, which may particularly benefit students with learning differences, emotional or behavioral problems, health issues, or those who prefer a more hands-on or project-based learning style.

Some of the benefits of alternative schools include small class sizes, flexible scheduling, individualized instruction, and a curriculum that often combines academic learning with life skills and vocational training. They may also provide more holistic or multidisciplinary teaching methods that can engage students who aren't motivated by traditional educational models.

In terms of college admissions, alternative schools are not generally viewed negatively. Colleges are typically interested in the academic rigor of a student's high school curriculum, their performance (grades, test scores), involvement in extracurriculars, personal essays, and recommendation letters. An alternative school can provide a unique narrative for a student's application and demonstrate their ability to thrive in a different learning environment.

However, it's important to ensure that the alternative school is recognized by an approved accrediting agency, so that your diploma will be accepted by colleges and universities. Furthermore, students have to make sure that the curriculum is academically rigorous enough to prepare them for college-level coursework. A college counselor can provide guidance on these matters.