Students in Timberlane alternative programs describe pathway‑focused options: evening division, HiSET prep and ELOs

Three students and the assistant principal for alternative educational pathways presented program highlights to the board, describing why the district’s alternative options work for students who struggle in a full‑day setting or prefer hands‑on paths.

Peyton described evening division as a smaller, less distracting setting that allowed her to make up credits and move to an earlier graduation; she plans to pursue a two‑year veterinary‑technical program after high school. Jake, a HiSET prep student, said the program lets him study at his own pace, work full time during the day and pursue an electrician apprenticeship after earning a high‑school‑equivalency certificate. Taylor described an athletic‑training ELO (extended learning opportunity) that included observation, event support and hands‑on practice with taping and basic athletic tasks; she said the ELO led to further program development this year.

Assistant Principal Daniel Foley (self‑identified in the record) explained that the HiSET option accommodates hands‑on learners and that ELOs can convert practical workplace experience into credit when the student completes reflection and supplemental projects. Board members praised the students’ commitment and asked staff to return with follow‑up information on outcomes and program capacity.

The board’s discussion praised alternative pathways as important options for students who need different schedules or career‑focused preparation, and members encouraged continued support and reporting on completion and post‑graduation plans.