OTHER SIDE PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Other Side is an interdisciplinary alternative program at Park Center High School designed to help 10-12^th graders succeed in school. Students attend two hours a day and receive credit in English and social studies, with an option to receive a science credit each year.

Students are in the Other Side for various reasons; some to help in their transition from junior high to senior high school, others may be struggling in mainstream English and social studies and failing to receive credit.

What makes the Other Side different from mainstream courses?

· Three classroom teachers to provide individual help

· Hands-on learning and group projects

· Focus on improving writing through journals and essays

· Focus on improving reading through small groups and high interest novels

· Volunteer component – weekly tutoring at elementary school and other sites

· Field trips to plays, museums and speakers (average one per trimester)

· Other Side teachers receive feedback from student’s other teachers – work to solve problems before student falls behind

· Cohesive social environment – students together for entire school year

Students are referred to the Other Side by counselors or teachers and are interviewed by Other Side teachers to determine if the program is appropriate for them. Some students stay in the program for a few years, others just require a trimester to get back on track and return to mainstream courses.

Questions?

Contact:

Tim Field fieldt@district279.org 763-569-7600 Ext. 88148

Marilyn Trouth trouthm@district279.org 763-569-7600 Ext. 88725