If your teen is struggling in school or at risk of quitting altogether, exploring other types of schooling may keep him or her in school or on a new course. Here are some of the options:
  • Tech prep programs. High schools may offer these hands-on courses or have arrangements with a nearby college to provide training in a variety of trades. Tech prep is an excellent option for kids who learn by doing. The high school guidance counselor should be aware of options within the school district or at local community colleges.
  • Career academies. Similar to tech prep programs, career academies are often small schools-within-a-school that train students in real-world skills. Career academies are usually located in the high school.
  • Magnet schools. Magnet schools can provide an exceptional education with a diverse student body. The school’s curricula may focus on a theme, such as the environment or the arts (see our article about an exemplary magnet school in Detroit “Urban Magnet School Combines Technology with High School Academics”).
  • Charter schools. Charter schools have more flexibility to experiment; in fact, they are often started by parents or educators seeking a different educational model. Talk to the high school guidance counselor or search for schools anywhere in the country at the U.S. Department of Education’s school search Web site. Many districts also list alternative schools on their Web sites.
  • Service learning. Service learning connects education with meaningful youth community service. Building a Habitat for Humanity home, for example, helps a kid learn construction skills while interacting with caring adults and improving the community. For more information on service learning, read “Service Learning: More Than Just Community Service Opportunities.”
  • Alternative schools. Every district has them—small, separate high schools for at-risk students. They focus on personal attention and keeping kids in school. Your guidance counselor is the best source of information about alternative schools.
  • GED programs. The GED (General Educational Development) test is a series of five exams that test the basic knowledge a high school graduate should have. Again, talk to a high school counselor to find out about test sites as well as classes or workshops to help prepare for the test. Visit the official site for information about the GED.
  • Tutoring. Maybe your teen just needs an extra boost to make it over some academic hurdles or improve his or her confidence. You might qualify for free tutoring (see “Public School Policy: No Child Left Behind Offers Free Tutoring to Some Students”).
  • Online courses. Find information on online courses in “Online Classes Reach Out to Students of All Learning Types.”