2255 - Alternative Learning Experience Programs Policy

Policy 2255

INSTRUCTION 

Alternative Learning Experience Programs 

The board of directors authorizes the creation of an alternative learning experience (ALE) program. The district will make available to students enrolled in an ALE program educational opportunities designed to meet their individual needs. The district will comply with all program requirements necessary to count an ALE as a course of study and ensure state funding for ALE students.  

Alternative learning experience programs may include, but are not limited to: 

A. Online programs as allowed by state law; 

B. Parent partnership programs that include significant participation and partnership by parents and families in the design and implementation of a student's learning experience; and 

C. Contract-based learning programs. 

The board will annually review this policy, including a review of each ALE program and provider. The superintendent is designated as the official responsible for overseeing the ALE program, and he or she may delegate this responsibility to a designated district administrator. The school district administrator responsible for overseeing each ALE program will report annually to the board the following: 

A. Documentation of ALE student headcount and full-time equivalent enrollment claimed for basic education funding; 

B. Identification of the overall ratio of certificated instructional staff to full-time equivalent students enrolled in each ALE program; The number of certificated instructional staff in each ALE program;   

C. A description of how the program supports the district's overall goals and objectives for student academic achievement; and 

D. Results of any self-evaluations. 

The district will submit an annual report to the Superintendent of Public Instruction detailing the costs and purposes of any expenditures made to purchase or contract for instructional or co-curricular experiences and services that are included in an ALE written student learning plan, along with the substantially similar experiences or services made available to students enrolled in the district's regular instructional program. 

No student or parent/guardian may be provided any compensation, reimbursement, gift, reward, or gratuity related to any student’s recruitment, enrollment or participation in an ALE unless required by law. This includes, but is not limited to, funds provided to parents/guardians or students for the purchase of educational materials, supplies, experiences, services, or equipment. District employees are prohibited from receiving any compensation or payment as an incentive related to in-district or out-of-district student enrollment in an ALE program. 

The superintendent is directed to develop procedures consistent with state law to govern the administration of the district’s ALE program. 

Cross References:    
Board Policy 2180 Technology and Electronic Resources 
Board Policy 2181 Online Learning 
Board Policy 2410 High School Graduation Requirements 

Legal References:
RCW 28A.150.262 Defining full-time equivalent student –Students receiving instruction through alternative learning experience online programs – Requirements – Rules. 
RCW 28A.150.305 Alternative educational service providers – Student eligibility. 
RCW 28A.150.325 Alternative learning experience programs – Generally – Rules  
RCW 28A.250 Online Learning  
WAC 392-121-182 Alternative learning experience requirements 
WAC 392-121-188 Instruction provided under contract 
WAC 392-502 Online Learning 

Adoption Date:  March 12, 2013