ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION

Crossroads Alternative Program is an alternative education program designed for selected students in grades 6 – 12.  Students are referred to the Crossroads Placement Committee by the administration of either Virginia Middle School or Virginia High School for placement consideration in the program.  Students who are experiencing school difficulty due to multiple suspensions, numerous behavior referrals for disruptive and/or defiant behavior, major policy violations, significant truancy concerns, and/or credit deficiencies that have led to lack of progress toward graduation may be referred.  Students may also be placed in the program by the Superintendent or Board of Education for Bristol Virginia Public Schools for policy violations or for a legal petition filed in accordance with Section 16.1-260 of the Code of Virginia. 

Crossroads Alternative Program is currently staffed with one teacher and one aide. Program instruction is based on the needs of the student.  Instruction is primarily focused in the four core content areas of science, social studies, math, and English.  Many students are working toward returning to traditional classes at either Virginia Middle School or Virginia High School.  Other students are working toward high school completion through GED.

In addition, Virginia Middle School has an on site alternative program.  It is staffed with one teacher and one aide.  Program instruction is based on the needs of the individual student with primary focus on the content areas of science, social studies, math, and language arts.  The intent of the program is for students to return to traditional classes.

LEARNING IN FIELD ENVIRONMENTS (L.I.F.E.) PROGRAM

The Bristol Virginia Public School division participates in a collaborative community-based program for suspended or expelled students. This program is known as the L.I.F.E. Program.  Students from Virginia Middle School or Virginia High School who have been suspended for 3 or more days may be recommended by the administration of their school to attend the L.I.F.E. Program.  Also, students who have been placed on long-term suspension or expelled by the Bristol Virginia School Board may be recommended to attend this program during their time of suspension or expulsion. 

The L.I.F.E. Program is located at the Boys and Girls Club.  Students at the L.I.F.E. Program participate in morning classes provided by Highlands Community Services and/or People Inc.  These classes include instruction in such areas as job readiness, decision making, self esteem, and anger management.  A time is also provided for students to work on academic skills or school work during the morning session.  In the afternoon, the L.I.F.E. Program students participate in community service activities.