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About
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:
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.
* Students must meet eligibility requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
Why the Alternative Program Might Be Right for Your Student
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
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.
*Students must meet eligibility requirements.
How It Works
It’s Not Too Late to Earn a High School Diploma
Great Lakes Learning Academy Alternative School in Michigan 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. The concentrated, 18-credit pathway at Great Lakes Learning Academy Alternative School offers students in unique circumstances the opportunity to earn a traditional high school diploma. Along with a high level of personalized attention, students benefit from:
the opportunity to focus on just three courses at a time
alternative instructional models and assessments based on real-world problem-solving
progressing through course content grouped based on state standards
individualized instruction and progression plans meant to meet the unique needs of every child.
Built For You
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
Our School Profile
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.
Download it below to get an inside look into what you and your student can expect from Connections Academy.
Ready to Join Great Lakes Learning Academy?
We proudly serve at-risk students in grades 9-12 across Michigan who meet specific requirements. Check whether your student is eligible for enrollment.