Richland 02 reviews alternative programs; Blythewood Academy staffing, facilities and wraparound needs highlighted

District staff presented an overview of alternative pathways at the April 8 Richland School Board meeting, emphasizing Blythewood Academy’s program model, staffing, enrollment and operational challenges and possible program expansions such as virtual pathways and an evening high‑school pilot.

Cleve Smith, Chief of Pupil Services, and Dr. Sabrina Suber, executive director for secondary schools, delivered the report. Smith said the district’s alternative-program annual headcount through the March reporting period was 255 students, while the academy’s active enrollment at the end of the 39‑week reporting period was recorded as seven students. "From the beginning of the year until that time, we had a total of 255 students," Smith said; he later described a recidivism figure as "only 1 student that returned ... out of the 270 that we had there."

Nut graf: The presentation described classroom staffing, course offerings and wraparound supports at Blythewood Academy, and identified shortfalls — limited psychological/therapeutic capacity, a part‑time (0.5 FTE) social worker, no regular extracurricular activities and facility and security needs. District staff also described options under study, including expanding virtual alternatives and piloting an evening high‑school program to reach over‑age students.

What staff presented

- Program model and staffing: Mr.…