About Us

Introduction

The St. Mary Parish Alternative Program is committed to working with students and their support systems to fulfill each of their goals. The procedures and policies in this handbook are designed to create an atmosphere conducive to students being and becoming the very best version of themselves that they can be. We believe that for all students to reach academic, social, and civic potential, there must be a believe that the solution lies in alternative sites employing alternative methods. The objective and curriculum at these alternative sites are based upon the eventual overall goal of returning these students to the academic and social mainstream of education.

Philosophy

The faculty/ staff of the St. Mary Parish Alternative Program believe that each student is valuable and is deserving of education opportunities. Instruction program will adapt as necessary to the needs of each student, and students will receive individual attention from teachers as much as is allowable in this unique setting. It is the belief of all involve in this program that helping students to develop a sense of achievement and self-discipline will lead to academic and personal success. “Connect before your correct.”

•   All students, especially at-risk students, are capable of excelling academically when provided with nurturing, supportive environment allowing a sense of felt safety to develop.
•   Academic success should not be limited to what is taught in a classroom but must encourage and include life experiences as well as hands-on learning to help develop the whole student.
•   Education is not a point in time but continued journey that requires access, support, and commitment.
•  Focus on individual needs and create success one student at a time.

 

Mission Statement

It is the mission of the St. Mary Parish Alternative program to provide a learning environment that allows students to develop their potential, to prepare students for post-secondary education and or/ the workforce, and to collaborate with community agencies, organizations, and institutions to meet students’ needs.

SMPAP re- engaged and re-connects students who have been unsuccessful in the traditional school system, increases the number of high school graduates and guides students to post-secondary training, education, and workforce opportunities.