School District’s Alternative Programs Offer Learning Opportunities for the Entire Community

On Wednesday I enjoyed a delicious grilled hot dog courtesy of Mark Catalana, the director of our District’s alternative programs – the Witzel Alt Academy, the Virtual Academy and Second Chances Better Choices. As the Alt Academy’s seniors were celebrating their last day of school on Wednesday, the Alt Academy’s staff was celebrating their students’ Project ENGAGE efforts and the fact that their seniors were graduating and their juniors and sophomores are on-track to graduate – a feat that, in a traditional classroom setting, might not have been a reality for some of these students.

The Alt Academy was developed in order to reach students who thrive when working at their own pace in a supportive, yet nontraditional, learning environment. Students use computer software to earn credits mainly in their core subject areas and return to either Mehlville High or Oakville High to complete their elective courses. Not only has the program been an outlet for students who might not have graduated within the traditional high school environment, but it has led them to seek advanced training – through technical schools and two and four-year colleges – that, without the Alt Academy, they might have never considered.   

The newest addition to the District’s alternative program portfolio is the Virtual Academy, a program designed to help students in a variety of circumstances receive their diploma from the Mehlville School District. Through the Virtual Academy, students work at home to complete District-approved curriculum but have the opportunity to receive assistance from the alternative program instructors as well.

The Virtual Academy is not a credit-recovery program; instead, it serves students who prefer an alternative method of learning. The program also provides a great opportunity for parents in the community who have elected to homeschool their children. Enrollment in the Virtual Program is free and allows homeschooled students to learn from the Mehlville School District curriculum and, upon completion, receive a diploma from the District. Parents interested in learning more about the opportunities available through the Virtual Academy should contact Mark Catalana at (314) 467-5261.

Working down the hall from the “headquarters” of the District’s alternative programs has given me a first-hand perspective not only on the success of the students enrolled in the programs, but on the dedication of the District’s staff members to help their students succeed. It also gives me the opportunity for a free lunch every now and then.

By Robin Anderson