Why is it that for some students the traditional high school experience does not work? How do we remove barriers for these students to ensure that they graduate? Arlington Public Schools is opening a new program in September to reach out to disenfranchised students who have dropped out or are significantly credit deficient and not on track to graduate. This new effort is the Open Doors Youth Reengagement Program that will be housed at Weston High School for students ages 16-21.
The program is designed to create a personalized educational experience for students interested in obtaining a high school diploma, GED or Career Preparation in a flexible setting that meets each student’s life circumstances and individual educational goals, while providing support for college, career and life. The program is committed to reducing the barriers that keep students from achieving their goal with the motto, “We believe, so that all students can achieve!”
The Open Doors Program strives to meet the academic, social and emotional needs of students. Aside from the academic opportunities offered, the program helps guide students over and beyond barriers they believe are holding them back from pursuing their dreams. Students meet one to one with staff each week in order to assist them with issues or concerns that may be hampering progress toward their larger goals.
In meeting most-basic needs, students are offered free and reduced lunch as well as other food options during the day. Shower and washer/dryer facilities are available for students in need. Mental health, along with drug and alcohol counseling referrals, can be facilitated. Students with transportation barriers are supported with bus passes, and students who are working are able to take advantage of more-flexible hours. Students are able to receive credit for work study experiences. Open Doors has a relationship with Workforce Snohomish, and students can avail themselves of career and job-related courses as well as job placement services.
The program also has a working relationship with Everett Community College, in order to help transition students from our program into post GED/high school programs. Open Doors is a full-service program that wraps around students and provides them all of the resources needed to meet with success.
Washington state is a front-runner nationally in the dropout reengagement field with the enactment of House Bill 1418 in 2010.
The State Legislature provided a statutory framework to support a reengagement system for older youth. Districts were encouraged to participate in this system and to provide appropriate instruction and services to reengage older students in order to assist them in making progress toward meaningful credential and career skills.
There are numerous programs being provided across the state by multiple districts, and Arlington Public Schools is joining in this action. Weston High School is excited to open the doors this fall to their Open Doors Youth Reengagement Program. For details call Rene McCart at 360-618-6336.
Kathy Ehman is assistant superintendent of Arlington Public Schools.
