This program is designed for students who have experienced significant academic deficiencies within the traditional classroom approach. Students are identified for alternative education through administrative, teacher or guidance referral.

Thornton's alternative education program is housed on campus and, for most students, combines a curriculum of alternative and mainstream education, career-oriented classes, and a vocational experience.

Our goal in grades 9 and 10 is to provide opportunities for success in basic learning skills and career orientation and to provide support for academic classes in mainstream programs. In grades 11 and 12 the curriculum explores a more hands-on vocational experience and further mainstream support in interest and required areas of study.

In addition to all programs offered at Thornton, students may earn credits through vocational programs at the Biddeford Regional Center for Technology, an approved on-site vocational experience, community service, or an approved program through an outside agency.

Students are actively involved in the selection process of courses and programs upon entering alternative education by signing a contractual commitment to the program that includes a 90% attendance requirement.

As an alternative education student, you must satisfy the following credit requirements:

• Total - 22 credits
• English - 4 credits
• Math - 3 credits
• Science - 2 credits
• History - 3 credits
• Affective - 4 credits (Includes Wellness, Arts,Social Work, Community Service)
• Vocational - 6 credits (Includes any combination of a vocational experience at BRTC, an approved vocational orientation program, or an approved on-site vocational experience)