At Kaukauna Area School District, we believe that every student has the ability to develop to his/her maximum potential, even if that's not in a traditional classroom setting. Because of this, we strive to provide educational programs that reflect the variety of learning rates and styles that exist within our district. We invite you to browse through some of these pages and take a look at some of the alternative programs offered at the high school level.
GEDO #2 Program
The GEDO#2 Program allows students to earn a high school diploma from KHS which is different from the traditional GED/HSED Programs that are offered at the technical colleges. It is designed for credit deficient high school seniors, who meet entrance criteria, to graduate on time by earning credits through GED testing. Students have a modified day with independent instruction. Students need to demonstrate employment skills by maintaining a steady job and completing a variety of other requirements. Some of the activities include a GEDO portfolio, completing volunteer activities, and self-improvement hours.
Credit Recovery
The credit recovery classroom allows 9-12 graders the opportunity to use Odysseyware to earn credits. Credit recovery students are eligible if they have failed the same class twice and are looking for a different environment to work towards the credit. Students are able to earn .5-1.0 credit for each course completed with a minimum score of 73%. Credit recovery is offered in all four core areas including Health and some electives. All courses in credit recovery are offered online.
Skills for Success 9-12
This course examines how different approaches to life and choices made can impact a person’s level of happiness in life and contribute to a more balanced existence. Students are empowered to explore how they can lead a more fulfilling life whether it is in the classroom or beyond. Being successful in the classroom is studied by looking at a variety of organizational systems and good study habits along with different methods of taking notes and test-taking strategies. The steps in seeking employment are dissected to ensure hiring pitfalls can be avoided. Students are also exposed to strategies that will help with problem solving, dealing with stress, and building self-confidence which leads to more independence. Financial responsibilities and dealing with stress are analyzed to prepare students for a healthy existence. The course offers academic and emotional support while checking student progress and grades in all classes weekly.
Credit Rescue
This is offered through the Jump Start Program and Skills for Success classes. Credit rescue focuses on allowing a Senior to finish the requirements of a class that was narrowly failed to earn a passing grade. The At-risk teachers work with the student and mainstream teacher to ensure that the student takes care of this responsibility.
For more information about KASD Alternative Programs, contact Holly Magness, Director of Curriculum & Instruction and Continuous Improvement. You can also find additional information in the District's At-Risk Plan.
Online Learning
Online courses provide a unique opportunity for students to take courses that they need in an alternative setting to the traditional classroom. KASD is now equipped to offer a number of online courses to alternative students looking to find their path and follow it to post-high school success.
While online courses are a great fit for some students, others are sometimes not prepared for the challenges presented with online learning, such as course access, self-discipline and commitment to independent learning.
If you'd like more information about online courses offered by KASD, and would like help determining if it's the right path for you or your student, please contact Holly Magness, Director of Curriculum & Instruction and Continuous Improvement.
Programs for Students with Disabilities
Parents or teachers who believe they have a student who may be eligible for special education services should contact a school psychologist, a school counselor, or a special education instructor to discuss referral and evaluation procedures. Following an educational evaluation, an individual education plan team will meet to determine eligibility for a program.
Students referred for special education programs have serious educational difficulties in the areas of: (a) overall ability, (b) academic skills, (c) social/emotional, behavioral adjustments, or (d) physical abilities. In most cases students are assigned on a part-time basis. However, the actual percentage of time that a student will spend in special education classes is decided at the Individual Education Plan (IEP) meeting. In most instances the pupil/teacher ratio is lower. Parent involvement and permission is necessary throughout the referral and placement process.
Programs for students with disabilities involve six basic areas, all of which follow the standard secondary instructional program, but with special adaptations to meet individual needs. The goal of the program is to help each student become academically competent, socially adjusted, economically productive, and independent. In addition to basic academic alternatives and groups, special classes include courses aimed at specific skills needed after high school graduation. These courses include: Job Exploration and Training and Independent Work Experience.
For further information or assistance contact the Director of Special Education, 766-6100, or School Psychologist, at 766-6113, ext. 5314.
Programs for Students with Disabilities include:
- Intellectual Disabilities (ID)
- Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH)
- Emotional and Behavioral Disabilities (EBD)
- Other Health Impairment (OHI)
- Special Learning Disabilities (SLD)
- Speech and Language (S/L)
- Visual Impairment (VI)
Jump Start Program
This program allows truant students to start the day with a light breakfast and beverage while enjoying connections, building relationships, and exploring curriculum through discussion based activities. It supports students by offering academic and emotional support. Student progress and grades in all classes are checked weekly to foster success. It allows students to start the first period of the day with a “soft landing”.
The program is designed to support students with truancy concerns. Students enrolled in this program are typically placed into first period Jump Start every trimester until truancy issues are no longer a concern and a recommendation has been made by the data team for transitioning out.
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