ALTERNATIVE TO DROPPING OUT

Cape Girardeau public-school students on a dropout path now have an option. The alternative high school program geared up last week. Already 17 students have enrolled, but director Sheldon Tyler expects the final 10 slots to fill up fast.

This alternative setting offers a lower student-teacher ratio and will more directly involve parents. The classroom component lasts half a day, and Tyler hopes to include a work component.

The alternative program removes students who may be disruptive from the regular classroom setting into a smaller setting. It also allows more flexibility in dealing with these students as a way to keep them in school.

The program will be housed in the Salvation Army's new building at 701 Good Hope.

Similar programs have worked well across the state. The potential is good for this alternative school program to find its niche and earn success in curbing drop-out rates in Cape Girardeau.