Alternative schools are defined as schools that meet the Arizona State Board of Education approved definition as schools whose sole and clearly-stated mission is to serve specific populations of at-risk students.
A school operated by a school district must have adopted a mission statement that clearly identifies its purpose and intent to serve a specific student population that will benefit from an alternative school setting. A charter school must be expressly chartered to serve a specific student population that will benefit from an alternative school setting.
The educational program and related student services of the school must match the mission or charter of the school.
The school must intend to serve students exclusively in one or more of the following categories:
- Students with behavioral issues (documented history of disruptive behavior)
- Students identified as dropouts
- Students in poor academic standing who are either severely behind on academic credits (more than one year) or have a demonstrated pattern of failing grades
- Pregnant and/or parenting students
- Adjudicated youth
Any school offering secondary instruction for academic credit used to fulfill the Arizona State Board of Education graduation requirements (in part or in full) must offer a diploma of high school graduation.
Schools must have current year AIMS test scores to apply for and receive alternative school status.
Alternative status is granted by application to the Arizona Department of Education and applies to the state and federal accountability systems.
Districts and charter holders (LEAs) can apply for alternative school status for their schools by filling out and submitting the application below.
The deadline for alternative school status application has passed.
If you have questions regarding this form or require assistance, please email Achieve@azed.gov.