Disability Resource Network, Inc. 

Alternative Education Program

Alternative Education In CT

PA 15-133 defines alternative education as “a school or program maintained and operated by a local or regional board of education that is offered to students in a nontraditional educational setting and addresses the social, emotional, behavioral and academic needs of such students.”

Students enrolled in alternative education benefit from the same academic standards for all students in Connecticut, within a different or unique setting, which addresses barriers found in traditional settings.  Alternative education can support student graduation by building positive relationships, focusing on students’ individual strengths, talents, social/emotional/behavioral needs and providing academic rigor and cultural relevancy of instruction.  Alternative education settings may be responsive to student needs by providing unique programming, nontraditional hours, or hybrid experiences for students. Students enrolled may include those whose academic, social/emotional and/or behavioral needs are not being met by the traditional program or school.

For more information, please visit the State of CT, Department of Education. 


     Unique Programming
Each individuals program is tailored to their specific needs and interests in our non-traditional settings by the Special Education teachers. One to one tutoring is available by the paraprofessionals who assist the teachers.  Students days are flexible and include enrichments activities to motivate them to complete school work.
     Independent Living Lessons
At DRN, students begin working on independent living lessons right away. Each location has training kitchens to teach cooking skills and laundry rooms to teach laundry skills. Students learn money management skills such as making a household budgets. Students will also be encouraged to start making appointments for themselves and are assisted in pursuing a Driver's License. 
     Court Liaison
Many of our Alternative Educations students have involvement in the juvenile justice system. DRN will help them meet any court mandated requirements, ensure they attend any court dates, and accompany them to court. . 
     Vocational Assessments
Students will complete vocational assessments and career interest inventories to explore potential career paths. DRN also assists students in securing their first jobs, helping maintain those jobs, advocate for any accommodations they may needs, etc. DRN has connected students with internships in the prospective fields of interest such as hair dressing salons, day cares, home health agencies, etc. as well as secure certifications they may be interested in such as Security Guard Card, Certified Nursing Assistants, etc. 
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