The Minneapolis Employment Readiness Curriculum (MERC) is an alternative high school created by the Minneapolis Public School System to aid students in areas of attendance, respect and goal-setting. The school offers small class sizes, a counselor, a mentorship program and help with college preparation. Classes are offered in the core areas of English, mathematics, science, speech, psychology and job preparation. A parent or guardian is needed to accompany the student to an intake, where an application and interview is required for admission.
The goal of the Loring Nicollet Alternative School is to provide an environment that empowers students by providing a safe space in which to learn. The school provides special events and activities for students throughout the year that involve camping, going on field trips and attending overnight trips to other areas. In order for a student to be admitted to the school, an application and interview are required. Classes offered include reading, math, science, creative problem-solving and speaking articulately.
Broadway High School is focused on providing a learning environment for pregnant and parenting students. Parents are allowed to bring young children for in-house childcare and early child programming, as well as family planning and pregnancy education services. Classes include hands-on elective courses, such as chef training, as well as core high school classes, such as English, math and science. A school-to-work program and a high school diploma program is offered for students who choose to accomplish goals through a different route.
The Heritage Academy of Science and Technology offers an alternative experience for students particularly interested in the areas of science and technology. The curriculum is rigorous and includes standard core classes as well as electives in science. The technological atmosphere includes access to laptop computers and software that aids with learning. College prep is emphasized through guest speakers, college visits and college fairs throughout the school year. Students interested in attending Heritage must submit an application and attend an interview in order to be considered.