Skip To Main Content

St. Mary Parish Alternative Program (IDDG)

Students exhibiting behavioral concerns in the regular school setting are referred to Child Welfare and Attendance. A conference or disciplinary hearing is held with the referring principal, parent/legal guardian, student, the hearing officer, and if necessary, a special education representative. Here, the hearing officer listens to the facts of the most recent violation of the Student Code of Conduct, considers the seriousness of the infraction, and reviews the student’s discipline record, examining the number of infractions. Based on this information and any legislation relevant to the most recent infraction, the hearing officer will determine whether the student’s behavior warrants a long-term suspension or an expulsion resulting in placement at the SMP Alternative Program. Here, the duration of the placement is also determined by the hearing officer. The SMP Alternative Program offers additional behavioral supports and interventions in addition to academic instruction. While attending classes at the alternative program, students shall not attend any school-related functions whether on or off SMP facilities. All truancy laws apply in this setting.

  • Students are grouped appropriately by age and/or grade span and receive grade-level instruction.
  • Support services are provided for any student with special needs in accordance with the IEP or IAP.
  • High school students continue to earn grades and/or complete course credits where applicable online through Edgenuity. The supervisor of the alternative program collaborates with school counselors to ensure that, to the extent possible, each student is enrolled in the same courses that he/she was taking at his/her school site. High school students eligible for Credit Recovery may schedule needed coursework through Edgenuity and can earn Carnegie Units.
  • Middle school students continue to earn grades through Edgenuity. Students are enrolled in core courses on grade level, a career exploration elective, and character education modules.
  • Elementary students receive instruction in core courses, art, and character education.
  • Students will receive progress reports and report cards according to the St. Mary district calendar.