BRIDGES & BEACONS

An Illinois law called The Safe Schools Act created a community resource to provide an alternative education option for students in grades 6-12 who have been suspended several times or are on the verge of being expelled because of gross misconduct. Provided with a new setting, students can learn coping strategies to foster academic and emotional maturity. Funding is provided by the Illinois State Board of Education through the RSSP and ADA grants.

The Illinois School Code authorizes the establishment of Alternative Education programs that serve students with attendance problems. The Beacons program is a full time educational option for truant and chronic truant students who wish to catch up to grade level or retrieve credits missed because of poor school attendance. Truant students are eligible to enter Beacons program up to their 17th birthday. Funding is provided by the Illinois State Board of Education through TAOEP and ADA grants.