What is the Alternative Program?

Great Lakes Learning Academy Alternative School in Michigan serves students in grades 9–12 who have experienced significant barriers to success in high school. Offering a high level of flexibility and support, as well as personalized learning plans, our school aims to empower students under the age of 22* to gain core academic skills, build resilience, and work toward post-secondary success. Great Lakes Learning Academy's Alternative High School follows the same school calendar as Great Lakes Learning Academy. This includes one summer school session available for all students.

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The Difference Between the Alternative Program and Traditional School

Traditional

  • Open to students under the age of 20 whose age is within one year of their classmates 
  • 22 credits, including 18 core credits and 4 elective credits  
  • Designed mostly for college-and-career-bound students
  • Traditional instructional models  
  • Offers socialization opportunities like clubs and activities 

Alternative

  • Open to students under 22 whose age is outside of typical grade parameters by more than one year  
  • 18 core credits  
  • Designed for students unsure of post-graduation plans
  • Alternative instructional models  
  • Offers socialization opportunities like clubs and activities through the greater Great Lakes Learning Academy community

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Get to Know Great Lakes Learning Academy's Alternative School

Typically used by colleges to get to know us, our profile highlights essential information about our school, including academic performance, course offerings, grade scale, and more. 

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Who is eligible for Alternative High School?

Participation in this alternative path is limited to high school students under the age of 22* who need unique support, including:

  • students at risk of not completing graduation requirements before they exceed allowable age limits

  • students who are off-track for graduation by more than a semester or who were retained in grades 5–8

  • students who have failed three or more core classes

  • students who have dropped out of school for at least one semester

  • students who have difficulty succeeding in a traditional brick-and-mortar school setting

*Students must meet eligibility requirements.

DISCLAIMER

Great Lakes Learning Academy Alternative School is specifically designed to meet the needs of students who are at risk of not graduating with their class or who are facing significant barriers to their academic success. This program is not designed for students who wish to fast-track graduation, including students who plan to compete in intercollegiate athletics. Great Lakes Learning Academy counselors will review enrollment applications to determine if the Alternative High School is the right fit for your student. 

ALTERNATIVE HIGH SCHOOL

  • Open to students under 22 whose age is outside of typical grade parameters by more than one year  
  • 18 core credits  
  • Designed for students unsure of post-graduation plans  
  • Alternative instructional models  
  • Offers socialization opportunities like clubs and activities through the greater Great Lakes Learning Academy community  

 

TRADITIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

  • Open to students under the age of 20 whose age is within one year of their classmates 
  • 22 credits, including 18 core credits and 4 elective credits  
  • Designed mostly for college-and-career-bound students  
  • Traditional instructional models  
  • Offers socialization opportunities like clubs and activities 

 

Class of 2024 Highlights

200+

Great Lakes Learning Academy graduates

38%

plan on attending a two- or four-year college

11%

indicated plans to enter the workforce upon graduation

Based on self-reported data by students in Connection’s Academy’s Class of 2024 report.