Mission Statement

The purpose of the ROE #20 Alternative Programs is to provide an educational alternative to students with diverse learning, emotional and cultural needs. This is essential for them to obtain the knowledge and skills to be successful in the learning environment, the work place and in life.

The staff accepts the responsibility to assist all students so they may attain their maximum educational potential through goals set by the pupil, his/her parents, the home school district, community resources and the Alternative School staff.

Overview 

The Learning Alternative Program is a coordinated effort among area schools and the Regional Office of Education. The program was developed to serve students who need an alternative educational environment to complete jr. high, high school or to prepare for the GED. Through individual and small group instruction, pupils have the opportunity to reach their goals and have successful outcomes. Students earning high school/jr. high credits must be referred by their home school district. The LAB School staff works with students to help set goals and to progress toward jr. high and high school diplomas or GED certificates.

Educational Objectives

The following objectives have been established for all students enrolled in the Learning Alternative Branch Programs provided by the Regional Office of Education #20:

• To master the basic communication skills through application of reading, speaking, listening and reasoning activities

• To become aware of the various opportunities of the world of work and to develop workplace skills and attitudes

• To develop good character and moral integrity through school, community and work activities

• To recognize the rights and cultural differences of others and act with courtesy and respect

• To demonstrate good citizenship in the school, and in local and world communities.

General Information

Students may be placed in the Learning Alternative Branch Program (LAB) upon recommendation of the home school principal, with approval of the district superintendent and the LAB director. The LAB will operate as a transitional program, in hopes the student may return to the home school district to complete his/her education or to complete GED requirements

At the LAB, students attend classes from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. each day.

Required classes for students to graduate from high school are offered in the alternative program. In order to receive one full credit, a student must complete 118 hours of classroom time, finish all work assigned and achieve passing grades.

School districts refer students eligible for the Alternative Education Program or Regional Safe Schools Program through a referral process. The following must be submitted to the Learning Alternative Branch or Regional Office.

NOTE: Additional requirements for students that hold a Special Education IEP or have a history of behavioral disorders.

1.  Completed Referral Form from local school administration.

Please note, the primary reason for referral to the TAOEP is TRUANCY.  Schools must have referred students for the truancy program and show interventions in place, prior to referring students to the TAOEP.

2.  Transcript of student’s grades, achievement tests scores, attendance records & disciplinary referrals.

3.  Student’s health records.

4.  Documentation of pass/fail Constitution Tests.

After the referral documents are received at the Learning Alternative Branch or Regional Office, the referral is reviewed and a meeting is scheduled with the student, the parent and the home school administrator to determine if the student is a candidate for the Truant Alternative Optional Education Program or Regional Safe Schools Program. 

An Individualized Optional Education Plan is written before the student is enrolled in either program.

The Regional Office of Education Learning Alternative Branch (LAB) Schools are funded through grants from the Illinois State Board of Education.