Alternative Education Programs

Dr. Faris Sabbah
Superintendent
John Rice
Executive Director, Alternative Education Program
(831) 466-5724

Enrollment Information

North County (831) 466-5728

South County (831) 466-5680

Supporting Families With Alternative Education Options

Alternative Education provides unique school opportunities for students throughout the county. Over 1,000 students are served annually at 24 small school programs.  At each, students receive individual and small group instruction in a supportive environment. Each school program is designed to fit the community it serves. We focus on academics, independent living skills, school-to-work transitions and self-esteem. All Students work towards a high school diploma.

Our Mission

The mission of the Santa Cruz County Office Alternative Education Program is to create safe, supportive, community-based environments where all students can grow academically, socially, and emotionally to become agents of their own futures.

Our Schoolwide Goals

In Alternative Education we strive to become more:

Curious

Engaged, knowledge-seeking, life-long learners

Conscientious

Kind to ourselves, compassionate with others, responsible to our communities, and active stewards of the environment

Confident

Self-empowered., self-actualized, community and globally active individuals

Our Philosophy

We believe that the educational success of our students is dependent upon quality academic and effective programs, which are supported by a healthy organization, our students’ families, and effective community partnerships. Our programs are student-centered and adapt to meet individual needs. We value personal and professional development. Staff works collaboratively to facilitate learning and change.

We believe that:

  • All students can learn.
  • All students can grow socially and emotionally to become productive citizens.
  • Each student should be given the opportunity to fully develop his/her potential.
  • There is a need to facilitate learning by drawing on individual strengths and learning styles.
  • Structured educational environments and programs help our students to learn.
  • Each student has a right to a physically and emotionally safe environment that is conducive to learning.
  • There is a need to embrace diversity.
  • Collaborative relationships are essential in delivering quality services and effective programs to our students.
  • We are accountable through evaluation of students and programs.

The Instruction

Dedicated teachers assist students to achieve social, interpersonal and academic success. They inspire students to develop their greatest potential. Low student-to-teacher ratios are provided in a variety of K-12 educational environments.  Alternative Education campuses provide individual, small group and community based instruction. This personalized approach allows students to develop the fundamental skills needed for achievement.

Courses and instruction

Teachers in Alternative Education provide a standards-based, WASC accredited course of instruction designed to satisfy California High School graduation requirements. In addition, curriculum in Alternative Education supports and promotes individual student achievement and College and Career Readiness. Teachers in Alternative Education may use an integrated, thematic approach to instruction. Courses include a variety of delivery over all subject areas, such as project-based, hands-on and multi-media or computer labs. Lessons, assignments, and projects are centered around themes that bring continuity to the learning experience. 

Teachers may cover all subject areas for completion of the grade level and/or needs of the student. Sometimes this is accomplished in group lessons directed by the teacher and other times by assigning individual work to a student. Students may also be given opportunities to earn credit through activities they participate in outside of school, such as physical education, work experience, or community volunteer work.

Graduation

High school students are able to earn credit towards graduation, develop life and employment skills.

Students who enroll in our programs may recover credits to transfer back to their district school for graduation, graduate from one of our programs, and then attend college or find success in the world of work.

Partnerships

Alternative Education Programs have formed effective community partnerships that successfully support student programs. Community based organizations and government agencies help coordinate student services, administer grants and implement community projects. These interagency collaborations offer counseling, supervision and wellness programs for teenagers.

Enrollment

Alternative Education Programs serve students who can benefit from a small school setting.

Students must be referred by their local school district, School Attendance Review Board, Social Services or the Probation Department.

For placement consideration, please contact the Alternative Education Programs:

North County (831) 466-5728

South County (831) 466-5680

Juvenile Hall Library opening.

Library Opens for Students at Santa Cruz County Juvenile Hall

Santa Cruz County Probation, the Santa Cruz County Office of Education (COE) and Santa Cruz Public Libraries (SCPL) are proud to announce the opening of ...

Alternative Education Kicks Off Second Semester with Renewed Energy and Achievements

The COE kicked off our mid-year graduation ceremonies Wednesday for students attending alternative education schools in the North County. Students from Oasis High, Star Community ...

Reflecting on Achievements: Closing Out the First Semester

As we bid farewell to the last few weeks of 2023, it’s time to reflect on the accomplishments and milestones that have marked the first ...

Santa Cruz County Office of Education Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP)

Expanded Learning Opportunities Plan

Prop 28 Arts and Music in Schools Annual Report

We are proud to serve free breakfast and lunch to all our students. Help us preserve funding School Funding by completing a meal application during enrollment, or by clicking on one of the below links.

Free and Reduced Meal Applications
District Advisory Committee (DELAC)
English Language Advisory Committee (ELAC)

School Site Council (SSC)

Resources