Special services provided include things such as online learning and institutional programs. The institutional schools require students live on the premises; this helps increase focus and control. Some programs offer child care for young mothers or transportation for students with special needs. Counseling can also be part of the program for students who have learning issues or need to overcome difficult home lives. All of these systems follow the Michigan Merit Curriculum, which helps students reach graduation in a timely manner.
In order to provide parents and students with information about alternative schools located in the area, Michigan runs a searchable database at the government website under the EEM section. From here you can seek out the type of specialized school you are looking for as well as the area where you live. You are provided a mailing list and contact email addresses and phone numbers to further research the requirements of the school.
Another need for alternative education comes from the issue of students who have been suspended or expelled from regular school. Oftentimes these behavior problems represent an acting-out due to an inability to process or succeed in a typical classroom setting. Alternative schools provide an educational home for these pupils. The alternative education legislation provides a guideline for when students must be taught in an alternative format if they are kicked out of regular school.
In addition to attending a specialized school, a number of specialized programs are available to students in the state. These include access to learning centers, special education, family literacy programs, learning activities and an early learning program if you suspect before your child's school years begin that she might need help. By the end of school or as early as the eleventh grade, students are allowed to sit for the Michigan Merit Exam. This exam grants students a high school diploma if they complete it successfully. The website provides a number of study guides and suggestions for success.